Cattle Egret
Cattle Egret Overview
The cattle egret is common in urban as well as remote areas on Oahu, Kauai, Maui and the Big Island (and is fewer on Molokai and Lanai). A few can also be found in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands.
Their habitat is around ponds, pastures, taro fields and along roadsides. On Oahu, they frequent the area around Pearl Harbor and Kaneohe Bay. On Maui, they can be seen around Kanaha and Kealia ponds. On the Big Island, colonies live around Loko Waka Pond. And on Kauai, many can be seen near Kilauea Point.
Cattle egrets mainly feed on insects and crayfish. They travel in flocks to and from their feeding sites. Common nesting areas are in kiawe or mangrove trees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can cattle egrets be found in Hawaii?
Cattle egrets are common on Oahu, Kauai, Maui, and the Big Island. They are less frequent on Molokai and Lanai, and some are also found in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands.
What type of habitat do cattle egrets prefer?
They are typically found around ponds, pastures, taro fields, and along roadsides. Nesting often occurs in kiawe or mangrove trees near water.
What do cattle egrets eat?
Cattle egrets mainly feed on insects and crayfish. They often follow livestock or mowers to catch insects stirred up from the ground.
Do cattle egrets nest in colonies?
Yes. Cattle egrets often nest in colonies, typically in trees near wetland areas. They travel in flocks between roosting and feeding locations.
Where are some good places to spot them?
Look for them near Pearl Harbor and Kaneohe Bay on Oahu, Kanaha and Kealia ponds on Maui, Loko Waka Pond on the Big Island, and near Kilauea Point on Kauai.