A medium-sized egret known for its shaggy, reddish-brown plumage and distinctively playful, energetic foraging behavior. It also has a rare white morph.
Where to spot
Coastal salt marshes, mudflats, estuaries, and shallow lagoons in the southern United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
How to spot
Look for its shaggy reddish-brown head and neck contrasting with a grey body (dark morph) or all-white plumage (white morph). Watch for its active, dancing foraging style.
When to spot
Year-round. Best observed during daylight hours, especially at low tide when mudflats are exposed.
Where to spot
Coastal salt marshes, mudflats, estuaries, and shallow lagoons in the southern United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
How to spot
Look for its shaggy reddish-brown head and neck contrasting with a grey body (dark morph) or all-white plumage (white morph). Watch for its active, dancing foraging style.
When to spot
Year-round. Best observed during daylight hours, especially at low tide when mudflats are exposed.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
The Reddish Egret is famous for its 'canopy feeding' technique, where it spreads its wings to create shade, attracting fish, or reduce glare, improving visibility.
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