Eastern Great Egret

Ardea alba (ssp. modesta)

Ardea alba (ssp. modesta) - Eastern Great Egret
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Size: 1 m

Distribution: All SA coastal and inland waterways

Habitat: Coastal estuaries and inland waterways

Depth: N/A

This large wading bird can be found on coastal bays and saltmarshes, and inland wetlands. It is white overall with a yellow bill, which turns black in breeding adults. It can be confused with the Little Egret (Egretta garzetta), particularly in breeding season, but can be distinguished by its larger size, longer neck (longer than the length of its body), and yellow bill when present.