cattle egret

The cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) is a small, Old World white egret that has been introduced to the New World. It is characterized by a yellow bill and, during breeding season, buff coloration on its crown, breast, and back.1

Unlike many other egrets that frequent wetlands, the cattle egret spends a significant amount of time on land. It is known for its association with domestic and wild grazing animals, feeding on insects that these animals stir up. They also sometimes remove ticks from the hides of these animals. The cattle egret is a compactly built heron, approximately 50 cm long, with white plumage, yellowish legs and bill, and short, fluffy breeding plumes. Its range has expanded from Europe, Africa, and Asia to include Australia and the Americas.23