Thursday, October 29, 2009

Great egret

The great egret is the largest of the egret/heron family in Costa Rica. They can reach 101 cm (40 in.) high.

You can tell the difference between a great egret and a snowy egret because the great egret has a yellow beak, but a snowy egret has a black beak.

The extra long tail feathers on this bird is a sign that it is the breeding season.

The scientific name for a great egret is casmerodius albus. They are known locally in Costa Rica as garceta grande.
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5 comments:

  1. brattcatOctober 29, 2009 at 4:49 AM

    I'll have to remember that about the beaks. Thanks, Dave.

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  2. SharonOctober 29, 2009 at 6:48 AM

    Another beautiful and sleek feathered friend! Very nice.

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  3. Julie ScottsdaleDailyPhoto.comOctober 29, 2009 at 7:13 AM

    you are on a bird quest. the number of excellent bird photos you have captured is truly amazing

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  4. JudyOctober 29, 2009 at 8:52 AM

    Very pretty with the long black stockings and fancy dress. I like the reflection too.

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  5. glendaOctober 29, 2009 at 6:59 PM

    The ibis and the egret are so beautiful. Pretty spectacular to see them in flight. These are great shots and the info is really helpful to tell them apart.

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