Species profile
About this species
The Reddish Egret is a medium-sized heron found along coastal regions of the southern the United States, Mexico, & the Caribbean. It exists in two colour morphs - a dark reddish-brown form & a rarer all-white form. The species is well known for its distinctive erratic feeding behaviour, which involves dancing & lurching through shallow water to disturb prey.
Shallow coastal lagoons, saltwater flats, tidal mudflats, & mangrove estuaries, particularly along the Gulf Coast of North America & throughout the Caribbean.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Reddish Egret with us in the United States.
These departures are part of our North America programme.
In the field, David Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Early morning or late afternoon light during the breeding season from March to June offers the best conditions, as the reddish plumage & breeding colours are most vivid & the soft golden light enhances contrast & colour.
Position yourself low to the water to capture eye-level shots that emphasise the bird's dynamic feeding behaviour & striking plumage. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/1000s to freeze the egret's rapid, erratic movements as it hunts. Approach slowly & stay at a respectful distance, as the species can be wary - a longer focal length of 500mm or more will allow frame-filling shots without causing disturbance.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Reddish Egret
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.