All species
resident
Least ConcernHerons and egrets
Little Egret
A small, elegant white heron with black legs, bright yellow feet and a long black bill. Once rare, Little Egrets are now widespread in southern and eastern areas of the United Kingdom.
Egretta garzetta
Wetlands Rivers Lakes Coastal Estuaries
Size
55-65 cm
Wingspan
88-106 cm
Weight
350-550 g
Lifespan
5-10 years
Diet
Small fish, frogs, crustaceans and insects, caught by stealthy wading.
Song & Call
Usually silent; occasionally gives a harsh croak at colonies.
How to identify
- All-white plumage
- Black bill and legs
- Bright yellow feet
- Two long plumes on head in breeding
Conservation
Least Concern
Population expanding northwards; benefits from wetland restoration.
