Reddish Egret
About the Reddish Egret
The Reddish Egret is a resident breeder in Port Aransas. In the past, this bird was a victim of the plume trade. According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), there are only 1,500 to 2,000 nesting pairs of Reddish Egrets in the United States, most of which are in Texas. They are classified as “threatened” in Texas and receive special protection. It is a medium-sized, long-legged, long-necked heron with a long, pointed pinkish bill with a black tip. The legs and feet are bluish-black. The sexes are similar, but there are two color morphs. The adult dark morph has a slate blue body and reddish head and neck with shaggy plumes. The adult white morph has completely white body plumage. During mating, the male’s plumage stands out in a ruff on its head, neck, and back.