Aquarium of the Pacific - Online Learning Center - Species Print Sheet
Conservation Status: Safe for Now - Protected
Snowy Egret
(Egretta thula)Birds
Species Overview
Snowy egrets, wading birds, are medium-sized egrets with a delicate build. They are in the family of herons and storks and are often referred to as medium-sized herons. Like most herons they have long necks, aids in probing in shallow waters for food.
Species In-Depth
At the Aquarium
These birds are not exhibited at the Aquarium; however, they are commonly seen foraging in waters near the Aquarium.
Geographic Distribution
US range: throughout the continental United States from northern California to Maine, and south to Florida and the Gulf of Mexico.
Diet and Feeding
These birds are omnivores. Their main diet consists of worms, aquatic and terrestrial insects, small lizards, fiddler crabs, shrimps, crayfish, crustaceans, snails, vegetation, and fishes.
Longevity
Estimated life span is 2 to 16 years. They have lived to over 16 years in protected environments.
Additional Images
