Western Cattle Egret

A small, stocky white egret with a short, thick neck. Unlike most herons, the Western Cattle Egret often lives in dry pastures and farm fields. Originally an African species, it has expanded rapidly into Southern Europe. It now frequently appears further north. It has a short yellow bill and a distinctive, hunched silhouette.

This species has a famous relationship with grazing animals like cattle and horses. They follow the animals to catch insects disturbed by their feet. They are highly social and nest in large colonies with other herons. In the breeding season, they develop orange-buff patches on their head, chest, and back.