Acadia National Park

Description  ADULT Has pure white plumage with elegant plumes evident during breeding season. Legs are black and feet are yellow (orange tinged at height of breeding season). Daggerlike bill is dark and lores are yellow for much of the time, but are flushed red in breeding season. juvenile Similar to adult, but backs of legs are yellow.

Dimensions  Length: 20-27" (51-69 cm); Wngspn: 3' 2" (97 cm)

Habitat  Associated with wetland habitats, ranging from sheltered coasts and brackish lagoons to freshwater lakes and rivers. Present year-round near coasts; summer breeding range extends inland.

Observation Tips  Easy to see in suitable habitats.

Range  New England, Southeast, Florida, Plains, Southwest, Rocky Mountains, Western Canada, California, Northwest, Texas, Great Lakes, Mid-Atlantic, Eastern Canada

Voice  Mostly silent.

Discussion  Pure white heron-like bird. Superficially similar to Cattle and Great egrets but adult Snowy Egret's bright yellow feet, contrasting with otherwise black legs, and its black bill, are diagnostic. Long periods of time are spent roosting and preening. Sometimes adopts a patient, wait-and-see approach to feeding but also employs more energetic tactics in pursuit of fish, amphibians, and crustaceans. Sexes are similar but immatures and adults can be separated with care. Beware confusion with immature Little Blue Heron, which is all white but has yellowish legs as well as feet, and a two-toned bill.