Taken at Cherine, France on June 25th 2010. (© David Hastings)
(1/400th sec at f/14. Click image for larger version)
Taken at Otmoor, Oxon., on July 14th 2025. (© David Hastings)
(1/800th sec at f/11. Click image for larger version)

Description

L: 45 - 52cm; WS: 82 - 95cm

Slightly smaller than the Little Egret, Cattle Egrets are visiting the UK in increasing numbers, and are now breeding here. They have yellow or greyish legs and a yellow beak, compared to the black legs (with yellow feet) and black beak of the Little Egret. During the breeding season their beaks become reddish, and they show orange smudges on the crown and chest.

The Cattle Egret is mainly an African species which has spread into Iberia, southern France, Italy and southern England in recent years.

They nest in trees and bushes by lakes and rivers.

They often spend time close to livestock and grab insects and worms that are disturbed.

Sightings