Cattle Egret

The Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds focuses on terns, shorebirds, and long-legged waders. One heron species with rather short legs that we see only rarely in Connecticut is the Cattle Egret. These smaller birds are usually found where their name would suggest - farm fields, grasslands and other areas resembling foraging grounds for livestock. They live year-round in the tropics after establishing themselves in South then North America during the last century, originating from Africa. They migrate north into the southern half of the continental U.S. for nesting season. I took all of the photos in this post in February in Florida, a year-round home.

Yesterday, Connecticut Audubon Society Land Steward Stefan Martin, who also contributes some of his time to AAfCW work, noted a probable Cattle Egret flying over Interstate 95 on his way to one of their properties. That is not exactly a situation where you can stop and see where a bird is heading.

I have actually seen Cattle Egret in Connecticut, and in my hometown, and at my office - Stratford Point! It was way back in 2010 during the legendary White-tailed Kite's 70-day stay with us, when it seemed like every species that could find its way up from the south got lost with us. When you're viewing our typical Great and Snowy Egrets, keep an eye out for this distinct, golden-plumed, more compact, white bird in more upland coastal areas, picking at lawns or fields like this one.

Scott Kruitbosch
AAfCW Volunteer Coordinator
RTPI Manager of Connecticut Programs