Cattle Egret

Bubulcus ibis

Cattle Egrets are originally native to Africa and the Mediterranean coasts of western Europe.  They began to colonize parts of South America in the 1970's, and were first seen in the United States when breeding populations were established in Florida in the early 1940's.  Cattle Egrets have since expanding their range to cover much of the southern U.S., and scattered locations throughout much of the northern U.S.  Cattle Egrets are unlike other herons and egrets in that they generally feed in upland areas.  They often associating with cattle or other livestock, following the animals (or tractors or other farm equipment) and feeding on any insects that are disturbed.  Cattle Egrets are often found in mixed breeding colonies with other egrets and herons.

Habitat: Can be found in nearly any kind of open country.  Breeds in trees or large shrubs, sometimes associating with other egrets and herons.

Diet: Primarily insects.  Also frogs, crustaceans, earthworms, snakes, eggs and young birds, and fish.

Behavior: Forages in a variety of habitats, but is found in dry, upland habitats much more often than most herons and egrets.  Cattle egrets are often found in upland pastures and fields in search of insects.

Nesting: June and July

Breeding Map: Breeding Bird Survey map

Song: Some croaks and grunts, but generally silent.

Migration: Summers in scattered locations throughout the United States.  Winters near Gulf Coast, the southwestern U.S., and points south.

Similar Species: Snowy Egret, Great Egret, immature Little Blue Heron.  See Identification Tips for differentiating between these species.

Conservation Status: Populations still increasing and expanding in range.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Cattle Egret

2) eNature.com: Cattle Egret

3) Whatbird.com: Cattle Egret

Photo Information: June 23rd, 2005 -- Assateague Island, Virginia -- Terry Sohl

Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution Cattle Egret photos.