Birds That Look Like Egrets

Egrets are predatory birds that hunt and live in a range of both freshwater and saltwater habitats. These birds are usually white, and have S-shaped necks, long legs, and dagger-like beaks. However, they are often mistaken for several other types of birds that look quite similar. So here’s a list of birds that look like egrets to help you tell them apart.

Herons

Egrets are actually a type of heron. They are part of the heron family and there is no biological difference between them. In fact, there’s no clear distinction between herons and egrets other than the fact that most of the birds referred to as egrets are white in color and have breeding plumage.

Both herons and egrets fly with their necks pulled back. This fact can help to instantly tell them apart from other similar-looking birds which fly with their necks extended. The great blue heron along with the grey heron are probably the most recognizable of the herons. Both of these species are often considered to be pond pests since they sometimes take advantage of the easy meals offered by backyard pond fish.

Storks

Storks are known for their large size, wide wingspans, and big beaks. The beak shape of storks varies by species and is influenced by their diet. These birds are not only large themselves but also build huge nests that have been known to reach widths of seven feet and depths of nine feet.

Because they are so heavy, storks typically use warm air currents known as thermals to glide instead of flapping their wings. When they do fly they extend their necks, unlike egrets and herons.

Cranes

Cranes are tall wading birds. In fact, they are considered to be the tallest of all flying birds in the entire world. There are fifteen species of cranes and these big birds can be found on all continents except Antarctica and South America.

Along with body communication cranes communicate using vocal calls which vary depending on the species. Unlike other birds that look like egrets, cranes are known for dancing which functions as a courtship ritual.

Spoonbills

Spoonbills have specially shaped beaks from which they get their name. These birds typically feed on crustaceans and small fish in muddy water.  Their beaks can actually detect vibrations in the water which helps them to find their food. While spoonbills may rest with their necks in an S-shaped position they fly with their necks fully extended and also dipping slightly below their body.

Ibises

Like spoonbills, ibises have unique beaks. However, their beaks curve downwards. Their nostrils are set at the base of their beaks which allows them to breathe freely while they use their beak to search for crustaceans and other prey underwater in the mud. Unlike other birds that look like egrets, their face and throat are typically featherless and turn a deep red color during the mating season.

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