Little Egret

About the Little Egret

The Little Egret is a small, elegant wading bird known for its slender build and pristine white plumage. It has a black bill, long black legs, and striking yellow feet that stand out against its white body. During the breeding season, adults develop delicate, long plumes on their heads, necks, and backs, which add to their refined appearance.

Little Egrets are found in a wide range of wetland habitats across Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. They thrive in coastal regions, marshes, rivers, lakes, and even rice paddies. These adaptable birds are often seen wading in shallow waters as they hunt for food.

Their diet mainly consists of small fish, crustaceans, insects, and amphibians. Little Egrets are skilled hunters, using various techniques to catch their prey. They may stir the water with their feet to flush out fish, chase prey in the shallows, or stand still and wait for an opportunity to strike with their sharp bill.

These birds are also known for their graceful and active foraging behavior, often seen darting and dancing through the water as they hunt. Their agility and precision make them effective predators in their wetland environments.

Little Egrets nest in colonies, often alongside other wading birds. They build their nests in trees, shrubs, or reed beds near water, using sticks and plant materials. Both parents take part in building the nest, incubating the eggs, and feeding the young.

While the Little Egret was once threatened by habitat loss and hunting, conservation efforts have helped stabilize their populations. They are now a common and widespread species in many parts of their range.

Find cute products & gifts with our Birdorable Little Egret

Details & Statistics

Added to Birdorable

Hatched November 25, 2011

Scientific Name

Egretta garzetta

Order:

Pelecaniformes

Family:

Ardeidae

Genus:

Egretta

Species:

E. garzetta

Bird Family

Egrets & Other Waders

Measurements

Length:

1.7 to 2.2 feet

(53.3 to 66 cm)

Wingspan:

2.9 to 3.5 feet

(0.9 to 1.1 meters)

Weight:

12 to 19 ounces

(340.2 to 538.6 grams)

Range

West Europe East Europe North Europe South Europe West Asia Central Asia East Asia Southeast Asia South Asia Australia North Africa West Africa Central Africa East Africa Madagascar Siberia