Eastern Cattle-Egret vs Great White Egret

In short

The Eastern Cattle-Egret (Ardea coromanda) is smaller and often seen in grasslands or near livestock, while the Great White Egret (Ardea alba) is larger, with a long, thin bill and legs, and typically found in wetlands. Key differences include size and habitat preference.

Identification tips

• Size: The Eastern Cattle-Egret is smaller than the Great White Egret.
• Bill and Legs: Great White Egret has a long, thin bill and predominantly black legs.
• Breeding Plumage: Look for buffy-orange on the head and neck of the Eastern Cattle-Egret during breeding season.
• Habitat: Eastern Cattle-Egrets are often near livestock, while Great White Egrets are in wetlands.
• Behavior: Note the head-pumping strut of the Eastern Cattle-Egret.

Size

The Eastern Cattle-Egret is distinctly smaller than the Great White Egret, which is a large heron measuring 80–104 cm in length.

Plumage

The Eastern Cattle-Egret has buffy-orange breeding plumage on the head and neck, whereas the Great White Egret is entirely white with long aigrettes during the breeding season.

Behaviour

Eastern Cattle-Egrets are often seen foraging near livestock, displaying a head-pumping strut, while Great White Egrets are more solitary and typically found in wetlands.

Habitat

Eastern Cattle-Egrets prefer grasslands, pastures, and areas near grazing animals, while Great White Egrets are found in wetlands, such as marshes and along water bodies.