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The Great White Egret,
White Heron, Common Egret or Great Egret (Ardea alba) is a wading
egret, found in most of the tropical and warmer temperate parts
of the world, although it is very local in southern Europe and
Asia. Great Egret is partially migratory, with birds moving south
from areas with cold winters. It should not be confused with the
Great White Heron, which is a white morph of the Great Blue Heron
found in Florida. This species breeds in colonies in trees close
to large lakes with reed beds or other extensive wetlands. It
builds a bulky stick nest. It feeds in shallow water or drier
habitats, spearing fish, frogs or insects with its long, sharp
bill. It will often wait motionless for prey, or slowly stalk
its victim. It is a conspicuous species, usually easily seen.
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The Great White
Egret is a large bird, only slightly smaller than the Great Blue
or Grey Herons. It has all white plumage. Apart from size, it
can be distinguished from other white egrets by its yellow bill
and black legs and feet. It also has a slow flight, with its neck
retracted. This is characteristic of herons and bitterns, and
distinguishes them from storks, cranes and spoonbills, which extend
their necks. Although generally a very successful species with
an massive and expanding range, Great Egret is highly endangered
in New Zealand, where it is known as Kotuku. In North America,
large numbers of these birds were killed around the end of the
19th century so that their plumes could be used to decorate hats.
Numbers have since recovered as a result of conservation measures.
Its range has expanded as far north as southern Canada.
Above Images From The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
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