Pacific Reef Heron vs Western Reef Heron

Pacific Reef Heron

Egretta sacra

Large502 gCoastal

Pacific reef herons are medium-sized herons, reaching 57 to 66 cm (22 to 26 in) in length. They have a wingspan of between 90 and 110 cm (35 and 43 in) and reach an average weight of 400 g (14 oz). The species displays an unusual, non-sexual dimorphism, with some members having entirely white plumage ('light' morph) and others (the larger portion) being charcoal-grey ('dark' morph). The reason for the colour variation or "morph", is unknown, though it is most commonly thought to be related to camouflage. The plumage of immature herons tends to be browner and duller in colour.

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Photo: coenobita · CC BY 4.0

Western Reef Heron

Egretta gularis

Large312 gCoastal

This bird has two plumage colour forms. There is an all-white morph and a dark grey morph; morphs can also occur with intermediate shades of grey which may be related to age or particoloured in grey and white. The white morph is similar in general appearance to the little egret, but has a larger yellower bill, extended yellow on thicker legs, and when foraging tends to be very active, sometimes also moving its wing or using it to shade the water surface.

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Photo: Kaippally · CC BY 2.5

Photos and recordings are credited to their authors under the licence shown. Full profiles: Pacific Reef Heron and Western Reef Heron.