AnimaliaIUCN LCApproved Recent Sighting
Egretta thula
Snowy Egret
Molina, 1782
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Small heron with pure white plumage, black bill with yellow base, and black legs with very distinctive bright yellow feet.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
Julia Trouin
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
Taxonomy
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderPelecaniformes
FamilyArdeidae
GenusEgretta
Taxonomic AuthorityMolina, 1782
Ecology & Status
Origin
Native
Population Trend
Stable
Breeding Season
Year Round
Trophic Role
Carnivore
Recent Sightings
Yes
Habitat Summary Multi-lang
Inhabits a wide variety of wetlands, estuaries, mangroves, marshes, and coasts, in both fresh and salt water.Behaviour Multi-lang
Elegant and active bird, usually hunts by walking or standing still in shallow water.Social Activity Multi-lang
Social, nests in colonies often mixed with other heron species.Feeding Guild Multi-lang
Versatile hunter: uses rapid pecking, stirs the water, or actively chases prey.Trophic Chain Details Multi-lang
Carnivorous: fish, crustaceans, aquatic insects, small reptiles.Reproductive Behaviour Multi-lang
Nests in trees, shrubs, or reed beds.Physical Measures
Length (cm)
55.0 - 65.0 cm
Weight (Grams)
350 g - 600 g
Offspring per cycle3 - 4
Sexual DimorphismNo
Lifespan
Sexual Maturity
1 - 2 Years
Gestation / Incubation
20 - 24
Lifespan Estimated
Males10 - 15 Years
Females10 - 15 Years
Evolutionary Adaptations Multi-lang
Yellow feet: Uses its brightly colored feet to attract or flush out prey at the bottom of the water while foraging.
Main Threats Multi-lang
Degradation of wetlands, pesticide contamination, and human disturbances in nesting colonies.
Interesting Facts Multi-lang
At the end of the 19th century, it was on the verge of extinction due to the fashion of using its long, delicate plumes on women's hats.