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Key information: The Cattle Egret is a bird belonging to the heron family. From afar, it looks more white than it really is and it may be confused with the Little Egret, although it is smaller in size. It is found in wetlands, although during the day it can also be seen in fields and near cattle (or goats and sheep), where it forages. It nests and roosts communally on bushes and trees found in wetlands.

Length: 45 – 52 cm

Habitat: Wetlands

When they can be seen: All year round

What they eat: Invertebrates

In Cyprus: Can be seen at Oroklini Lake, Akrotiri Marsh, Athalassa Park, Agios Loukas Lake in Famagusta district and at coastal areas during migration

Status: Passage migrant, winter visitor, resident breeder

Illustration by Paschalis Dougalis