Egretta

Egretta is a genus of medium-sized herons in the family Ardeidae, commonly referred to as egrets. Members of Egretta are found in warm regions around the world, including Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and Oceania. They are characterized by slender bodies, long legs, and long necks, with bills that are well adapted for stalking and striking prey in shallow water. Many adult egrets are predominantly white, a coloration that provides camouflage against bright water surfaces; some species show darker or multi‑toned plumage in non-breeding plumage or as juveniles.

Taxonomy and species: The genus includes several well-known species such as the snowy egret (Egretta thula) and the little egret (Egretta garzetta). The great egret is sometimes treated as Egretta alba, though many classifications place it in Ardea (as Ardea alba). The western reef‑heron (Egretta gularis) and the tricolored heron (Egretta tricolor) are also included in Egretta. The cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) has historically been variably classified, with many authorities now placing it in a separate genus Bubulcus rather than Egretta.

Ecology and behavior: Egrettas inhabit wetlands, marshes, mangroves, and coastal areas. They feed mainly on fish, amphibians, crustaceans, and insects, using slow, deliberate stalking and swift strikes. They often breed in colonies, building stick nests in trees or shrubs over water. Both parents typically cooperate in incubating eggs and feeding the young.

Conservation: Most Egretta species are of least concern, but habitat loss, pollution, and human disturbance threaten certain populations in parts of their ranges.