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Great Egret

Great Egret is a bird that is common near my home in Sonoma County. It is common to see a Great Egret in Sonoma County, especially along the shores of Bodega Bay.

The Great Egret is also known as the Great White Egret, the Common Egret, or White Heron. The Great Egret is a large bird with all-white feathers. It is slightly smaller than the Great Blue Heron. The Great Egret can be distinguished from other white egrets by its yellow bill and black legs and feet. The Great Egret flies slowly with its neck retracted, a characteristic of all Herons. It is a common bird and is easily seen.

At one time the Great Egrets numbers were drastically low in number. Around the end of the 19th century they were hunted for their feathers. Their plumes were used in hats as decorations. As a result of efforts by conservationists their numbers have stabilized over the years and their range has expanded. The formation of the National Audubon Society is based in part to protecting the feathers of the Great Egret. In 1953 this bird was chosen as the symbol of the organization. Habitat loss is still an issue as urban and suburban growth has expanded into wetland areas.

The Great Egret can often be photographed in Sonoma County in many different areas. One excellent location to view and photograph the Great Egret is along the shores of Bodega Bay. They are often along the shoreline feeding, spearing prey with its long, sharp bill. They can be seen standing still and allowing the prey to come within striking distance. The Great Egret then uses its bill as a spear. They can often be seen waiting motionless for prey, or slowly stalk its victim.

The Great Egret is a large and unique heron and we are fortunate that the conservation work of a previous generation saved this bird for all to appreciate.