- Comments:
Although less common in the northern and western parts of the Great Plains, Great
Egrets have been found throughout the region in shallow, fairly open salt, brackish and
freshwater habitats. Great Egrets are distinguishable from other white herons by their
large size, thin, slightly down curved yellow bill and long, black legs and feet. During
the breeding season they develop long, white breeding plumes called “aigrettes”
on the back. These filamentous plumes were highly prized by the millinery trade and led to
the birds’ near extirpation in parts of their range.
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