Great Egret
About the Great Egret in Singapore
Last updated 29 May 2026
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The Great Egret (Ardea alba) is one of the largest species of egrets found in Singapore. Breeding adults have red legs and black bills, while juveniles resemble non-breeding adults. Though similar looking to the Medium Egret, the Great Egret is larger and taller with a longer bill and a more kinked neck, as well as an eye gape that extends beyond the eye
Identifying features
Check out some identifying features of the Great Egret!
Largest of the egrets found in Singapore. Entirely white plumage, heavily yellow bill and with black legs. Most similar to the Medium Egret, but the Great Egret has a distinctive kink in its neck, with the gape extending beyond below the eye.
Interested to learn more about how to identify Herons? Check out our simple guide on identifying Herons!
Habitat and ecology
The Great Egret can often be found inland, in areas where land and sea converge such as wetlands, mangroves and mudflats
Frequently asked questions
Q: What is the difference between the Medium and Great Egret?
The main difference between the Medium Egret and the Great Egret is their size. The Great Egret is bigger and taller, with a more kinked neck. The Medium Egret is a bit smaller and its neck shorter and less kinked. The Great Egret also has a longer bill as compared to the Medium Egret.
If you look closely, the gape of the two Egrets also vary, with the Great Egret's gape extending beyond its eye, while the gape of the Medium Egret stops just below its eye.
Join us for Heron Watch!
Enjoy birdwatching, or interested to learn more about herons? Join us for Heron Watch to collect valuable data about herons, egrets and bitterns which contributes to their conservation.
Learn more about the Great Egret!
Curious about the Great Egret? Here are some interesting articles you can read to learn more about them.
