Taxonomia
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Birds
Order: Pelecaniformes
Family: Ardeidae
Genus: Egretta
Species: Egretta garzetta
Estado de Conservação da Espécie em Portugal e no Mundo
Portugal
Mundo
Características e
Hábitos
In terms of size, it has a length of 55 to 65 cm and a wingspan of 88 to 95 cm. Among the herons, this is one of the smallest. Its most notable characteristics are its white plumage, long neck, and crest (more visible in the male). The beak is black, as are the legs, except for the feet, which are yellow. It flies with its neck retracted and legs outstretched like other herons.
It is a diurnal species. It feeds mainly on small fish, amphibians, and invertebrates. Its hunting method can vary from remaining completely motionless in or near the water waiting for the ideal moment to catch prey, to walking slowly while chasing prey, or using its wings to lure prey into the shade. It nests in trees, shrubs, and very rarely in cliffs and cavities. It usually lays 4 eggs, which take about 21 to 25 days to incubate.
In terms of interaction with humans, this bird frequents areas both near and far from urban areas; therefore, its reaction to human presence depends heavily on this. Generally, it tends to stay in one place, but remains vigilant. If approached too closely, it will fly away.
Habitat e Distribuição
The habitats it frequents are mainly coastal areas, but especially estuaries, lagoons, rias, rivers, reservoirs, and marshes. Generally, it inhabits shallow, freshwater or brackish wetlands.
It is a common resident bird, found in Portugal throughout the year, in coastal areas and throughout the south of the country, however it is a rare winter visitor, being present only in winter in the northern interior region. The area of the country where this species is most observed is in the Mondego estuary, but it is also frequently seen in the Aveiro lagoon, and in the Tagus and Sado estuaries. During the breeding season it migrates further south of the country where it nests in specific colonies, the most prominent of which are located in Ribatejo, Alentejo and Algarve.
Todas as Fotografias Realizadas
