Lesser/Little Egret — David Taylor - Master Jeweller

I have a lot of trouble determining which white egret is which. If the Lesser Egret is hunting like this one was then it is quite easy to identify. They are the only Egret to chase their prey, dancing around in the shallows spreading their wings out in an attempt to startle it.

Another way to identify them is by the nuptial plumes that fall from the back of the crown when breeding.

And this is why I get confused. That black bill with the lower yellow base identifies it as a Lesser Egret yet it is missing the distinctive nuptial plumes from the crown. The facial skin is flushing reddish which should identify it as in courtship yet no nuptial plumes from the crown.

Now if we look at this bird it has the nuptial plumes but no lower yellow base and the face skin is almost white. The only other Egret with a totally black bill is the Great Egret when in breeding but they only have plumes on their backs. LOL I give up.

The Lesser Egret loves tidal mudflats, mangroves and wetlands. It feeds on invertebrates and fish.