Medium Egret

About the Medium Egret in Singapore

Last updated 29 May 2026

The Medium Egret (Ardea intermedia) is a common migratory heron in Singapore. Breeding adults have plumes at the back and breast, while juveniles resemble non-breeding adults.

Identifying features

Check out some identifying features of the Medium Egret!

Primarily white egret, with a yellow beak and black legs. Similar to the Great Egret but smaller in size, with a less kinked neck. Gape also stops below the eye, as opposed to extending beyond the eye for the Great Egret.

Interested to learn more about how to identify Herons? Check out our simple guide on identifying Herons!

Habitat and ecology

Medium Egrets can often be found at various inland freshwater habitats, marshy grasslands and occasionally 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.

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