Snowy Egret Facts

The snowy egret is a medium-sized bird in the heron family of the genus egretta, commonly known as plumed egrets. It is a widespread species which was once actively hunted for its attractive, plumed feathers. Since around 1910, hunting of the bird has been banned in many areas. As of 2011, the egret is listed as protected by the migratory bird treaty act.

  1. Description

    • The snowy egret grows to between 22 and 26 inches in length. It can have a 39-inch wingspan and weigh as much as 14 oz. It has a large body with long, thin legs. The bird's body is pure white, but its beak and legs are black and its feet are yellow. Juveniles have slightly lighter beaks and more yellow legs.

    Habitat and Range

    • The egret has a large range that includes permanent and migratory homes. Populations are found year-round in most of South America, and winter populations gather in Central America. During the breeding season, the egret can be found in the southern United States in Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas. Non-breeding populations can also be found as far as Michigan and Maine. The bird prefers wetland habitats such as swamps, salt marshes and coastal areas.

    Diet and Predators

    • Fish and crustaceans make up most of the snowy egret diet, but it also pursues worms, amphibians, reptiles and insects. It uses its sharp beak to fish for or dig up food. It will slowly stalk and pounce on some of its prey. Its own predators include alligators, large snakes and great horned owls. Raccoons and crows also feed on chicks or unprotected eggs.

    Life Cycle

    • Snowy egrets form pairs to breed and raise chicks. Mating season is generally in the spring, around March to April, and both parents build a twig nest either on the ground or in a tree. The female lays between two and eight eggs, which are incubated by both parents. The eggs hatch in around 24 days, after which the parents take turns protecting and feeding the chicks. The young leave the nest after around 14 days. The birds in the wild live between two and 17 years, on average.