The Little Egret is a species of small heron. It’s a white, aquatic bird that feeds in both shallow water and on land. This bird is resident across wetlands in Australia, as well as Europe, Africa and Asia.
The Little Egret is a small white egret with dark grey-black legs, a black bill and a bright yellow naked face. In the breeding season, the plumage includes two ribbon-like head plumes and abundant plumes on the back and breast.
At the nest the Little Egret utters numerous bubbling and croaking sounds. Bird call recorded by: Francesco Barberini
The Little Egret is found mainly in coastal and inland areas of northern, eastern and south-eastern Australia. It is common on the north, uncommon in the south, and only a winter visitor to Tasmania. Little Egrets are also found widely in Africa, Europe, Asia and New Guinea.
Habitat: Wetland, Coastal
The Little Egret frequents tidal mudflats, saltwater and freshwater wetlands, and mangroves.
The Little Egret will spread one or both of its wings to shade the water while stalking prey. The Little Egret sometimes joins Cattle Egrets to feed in grassland near domestic cattle
The Little Egret feeds on a wide variety of invertebrates, as well as fish and amphibians. The Little Egret hunts in shallow water by shuffling a foot to stir up aquatic prey, which it then takes in a lightning-fast movement. It also chases small fish with its wings raised.
Breeding occurs in colonies with other waterbirds. A scanty nest of sticks is built over water. Both sexes incubate the eggs. Before fledging, the young birds are able to climb around or roost in branches near the nest.
