Great Egret

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Great Egret Photo

The Great Egret can have a wingspan of 55 inches and is sometimes confused with a heron. The species is found throughout the world and has its winter range along the California coast . . . although it can be found year round in some locations.

Identifying characteristics:

• Size: 32 inches | Wingspan: 55 inches
• White plumage
• Long, straight yellow bill
• Black legs

Great Egrets nest in trees, laying from one to six eggs. Their food sources include fish and amphibians as well as birds and small mammals.

^{Photo © Mike Baird
Creative Commons
Sources: U.S. Geological Survey | Cornell Lab of Ornithology}