Pacific Reef Heron
Egretta sacra
The Pacific Reef Heron (Egretta sacra) is a uncommon herons, egrets, and bittern found in 40 countries, weighing about 502 g. The Pacific reef heron, also known as the eastern reef heron or eastern reef egret, is a species of heron found throughout southern Asia and Oceania.
About the Pacific Reef Heron
The Pacific reef heron, also known as the eastern reef heron or eastern reef egret, is a species of heron found throughout southern Asia and Oceania. It occurs in two colour morphs with either slaty grey or pure white plumage. The sexes are similar in appearance.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
How to identify it
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.
Where it lives
When to see it
The Pacific Reef Heron can be seen all year round, with peak activity in October. It is a resident species across most of its range.
Easily confused with
Quick questions
- How do you identify a Pacific Reef Heron?
- Pacific reef herons are medium-sized herons, reaching 57 to 66 cm (22 to 26 in) in length. Full identification notes are on this page.
- How big is a Pacific Reef Heron?
- The Pacific Reef Heron is a large sized bird weighing about 502 g.
- Where can you see a Pacific Reef Heron?
- The Pacific Reef Heron occurs in 40 countries, including Australia, Taiwan, Thailand, New Zealand and Indonesia.
- What birds look similar to a Pacific Reef Heron?
- The Pacific Reef Heron is most easily confused with the Western Reef Heron, the Black Heron and the Pied Heron.
- Is the Pacific Reef Heron endangered?
- The Pacific Reef Heron is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
Learn the Pacific Reef Heron for real
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