The little egret is a small, white heron with black legs, a black bill, and bright yellow feet that are a key identifier. These birds are found across Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia and are highly social, often seen hunting in flocks. During breeding season, they develop long, elegant plumes on their heads and backs. They are opportunistic hunters that primarily eat fish and crustaceans in shallow water, sometimes using their feet to stir up prey.
Physical characteristics
Size: 55–65 cm in length with a wingspan of 88–95 cm.
Weight: 350–550g.
Plumage: Entirely white, including long plumes on the crest, back, and chest during breeding season.
Legs and feet: Black legs with distinctive yellow feet.
Bill: Pointed, jet-black bill.
Habitat and distribution
Global range: Found in tropical and temperate regions of Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia.
Habitat: Prefers shallow waters like coastal areas, estuaries, and freshwater wetlands, and can be found in both rural and urban areas.
UK presence: A recent colonizer, first breeding in 1996, but now a common resident in much of the country.
