Western cattle egret

The western cattle egret is a white heron that thrives in warm climates across multiple continents. Originally from Africa and southern Europe, it has spread to new territories surprisingly fast. Unlike many egrets, this bird prefers following grazing animals to catch insects stirred up by their hooves.

• Follows livestock to snatch insects disturbed by their movement
• Expanded its range dramatically in the past 100 years
• Looks like other egrets but is actually closer to herons genetically