Little Egret
Egretta garzetta
Length 55-65cm

Formerly classed as a rarity in Britain, this species is now a common and conspicuous year-round resident on many estuaries and coastal waterways in S England. Stragglers also turn up from time to time on coasts elsewhere in Britain and are occasionally seen on inland wetlands. Unmistakable, pure white, heron-like bird with black, dagger-like bill and long neck. Legs long and black with plastic-yellow feet, these often not visible if bird is wading. In breeding season, acquires head plumes and trailing plumes on back. In flight, trailing legs and yellow feet conspicuous; neck held in hunched 's' shape. Active feeder, often chasing after fish in shallow water and stabbing with great accuracy. At other times, may rest in hunched-up posture with head and bill hidden when can be confused with mute swan. Does not breed in Britain yet but may do so before long. Roosts in colonies, often in good numbers at places such as Little Sea on Studland Heath, Dorset and at Thorney Island on the Solent.