|
 |
Order: Ciconiiformes Family: Ardeidae Chick Type: Semialtricial (chick has mobility, need food from parents and requires parental attendance) Snowy Egrets are found along the Atlantic Coast, Pacific Coast, most of the western states. They winter in the lower Atlantic and Pacific coast. This species is alos found in South America. Like Great Egrets, Snowys also build stick nest on trees. They breed in colonies called Rookeries. Often other wading birds will nest with them in rookeries, such asGreat Egrets, Cattle Egrets, Tri-colored Herons, Roseate Spoonbills and cormorants. Usually three to five light greenish-blue eggs are laid, and will hatch after 20 - 24 days. The chicks will fledge after 30 days. This large egret eats small vertebrates and large invertebrates; items such as fish, frogs, small snakes and crayfish are often taken. Adult Snowy Egrets in breeding plumage differs from adult breeding Cattle Egrets by their black bills and black legs. Like many wading birds, this species made an excellent comeback from the plume hunting days. Aigrette plumes were very popular in women's hats. Thankfully, through the work of the Audubon Society, Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, and other pro-wildlife organizations, this species has made a full recovery and has protected sites for its rookeries. |
|
     |
 |
