Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Pelecaniformes, Family: Ardeidae, Genus: Ardea, Species: A. alba
Great Egret
A large, elegant white heron with a long S-curved neck, yellow bill, and black legs and feet
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Plumage & appearance
Entirely white feathers; during breeding season, long decorative plumes (aigrettes) grow from the back
Ecological significance
Acts as an apex predator in wetland ecosystems, helping to control populations of fish, insects, and crustaceans
Conservation status
Least Concern (IUCN)
Observation tips
Look for them standing motionless in shallow water or stalking prey with slow, methodical steps near wetlands, ponds, and marshes
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