Reddish Egret

The Reddish Egret, a medium-sized heron, presents a striking figure with its long legs, elongated neck, and a long, pointed bill that is pinkish with a black tip. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism with two color morphs: the dark morph boasts a slate blue body with a reddish head and neck adorned with shaggy plumes, while the white morph is cloaked entirely in white plumage. Juveniles display a brown body, head, and neck. During the breeding season, males exhibit a ruff of feathers on their head, neck, and back.

Identification Tips

Distinguishable by its size, the Reddish Egret measures 68–82 cm in length and spans a wingspan of 116–125 cm. It weighs between 364–870 g. The egret's legs and feet are bluish-black, and it is larger than other Egretta species but smaller than the Great Blue Heron and Great Egret.

Habitat

The Reddish Egret favors tropical swamps and is often associated with mud flats, where it is most commonly observed.

Distribution

This bird is a resident breeder in Central America, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, the Gulf Coast of the United States (primarily Texas), and Mexico.

Behaviour

Noted for its dynamic foraging, the Reddish Egret is seen actively stalking its prey in shallow waters, often near mud flats. It employs a unique hunting strategy, using the shadow of its wings to reduce water glare, enabling it to spear fish, frogs, crustaceans, and insects with precision.

Breeding

The Reddish Egret nests in colonies, often alongside other herons, on platforms of sticks in trees or shrubs, and occasionally on the ground. Its courtship displays are characterized by head shaking, chases, circle flights, and bill clacking.

Similar Species

While similar in habitat to other herons, the Reddish Egret is distinguished by its size, behavior, and the two color morphs.

Diet and Feeding

The egret's diet consists of fish, frogs, crustaceans, and insects, which it hunts in shallow waters.

Conservation status

The Reddish Egret is currently classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN. It was historically a victim of the plume trade and is considered North America's rarest and least studied ardeid. In Texas, it is listed as "threatened" and receives special protection.