Cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis)

Scientific Classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Aves
Order:	Ciconiiformes
Family:	Ardeidae
Species:	Bubulcus ibis
Common:	Cattle egret

The cattle egret is a medium-sized, white species of heron found in the tropics, subtropics and warm temperate zones. Originally native to parts of Asia, Africa and Europe, it is now found in much of the rest of the world.

Identification

Adults

Adult male and female cattle egrets are similar in appearance. They are a stocky white bird, adorned with buff plumes in the breeding season. They have a sturdy yellow bill, dark legs and feet, swollen throat and a rather short, thick neck.

Immature

Immatures birds are entirely white without plumes. Bill starts out dark and gradually becomes yellow.