Bird Guide

Little Egret vs Snowy Egret

Little Egret (Egretta garzetta)

Little Egret

Egretta garzetta

Large312 gWetland

The adult little egret is 55–65 cm (22–26 in) long with an 88–106 cm (35–42 in) wingspan, and weighs 350–550 g (12–19 oz). Its plumage is normally entirely white, although there are dark forms with largely bluish-grey plumage. In the breeding season, the adult has two long plumes on the nape that form a crest. These plumes are about 150 mm (6 in) and are pointed and very narrow. There are similar feathers on the breast, but the barbs are more widely spread. There are also several elongated scapular feathers that have long loose barbs and may be 200 mm (8 in) long.

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Recording: Sonothèque ADVL · CC0
Photo: (c) Bengt Nyman, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Snowy Egret (Egretta thula)

Snowy Egret

Egretta thula

Large371 gWetland

Adult snowy egrets are entirely white apart from the yellow lores between the long black bill and the eye, black legs, and bright yellow feet. The nape and neck bear long, shaggy plumes known as aigrettes. Immature snowy egrets have duller, greenish legs. Measurements: Length: 22.1–26.0 in (56–66 cm) Weight: 13.1 oz (370 g) Wingspan: 39.4 inches (100 cm)

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Photo: Hobbyfotowiki · CC0

Where you might meet both

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Photos and recordings are credited to their authors under the licence shown. Full profiles: Little Egret and Snowy Egret.