Family: ArdeidaeHabitat: Found in actively grazed pastures and grasslands; also on lawns or along roadsides, and occasionally in marshes or flooded agricultural fields (A.O.U. 1998).
Distribution: Breeding range extends from central California, eastern Oregon, southern Idaho, Utah, Colorado, North Dakota, the Great Lakes region, northern Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Maine south to Baja California, Mexico, the Gulf coast, and Florida. Generally winters from Florida, the Gulf coast states, coastal Texas, and western Oregon and northern California south throughout its breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).
Field Marks: Of the three typically white egrets (Cattle, Snowy, and Great Egrets), the Cattle egret is the smallest. In breeding season, note orangish feathers on crown, back, and lower neck; bill and leg color also more red or reddish-orange at this time of year. During the non-breeding season, bill and legs are yellowish in color. Compare also with immature Little Blue Heron.
Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, usually in association with other herons. Nest is usually placed up to 12 feet high in small tree and consists of a platform of sticks, vines, and twigs.
Eggs: 2-6, usually 3-4; 48 millimeter; pale bluish-green or bluish-white in color.
Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young. Incubation usually lasts about 22-26 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 30 days old.
