Egret on Tolka

Gaspode

I spotted an egret (not sure what type) yesterday aftenoon on the Tolka at Ashtown crossroads. I've never seen one before around here and they really are quite elegant compared to the herons which nest here. I wonder will it settle here with the herons so close by?
I'm awaiting a new charger for my camera, so if it's still around I should be able to get some shots of it & post them here.

anyone know if they are common/rare around dublin?

stevensi

It was more then likely a little egret you saw. Beautiful birds. They are pretty common around dublin these days. 20-30 years ago it would have lead to great excitment to see one but now they are pretty common.

The best way to recognise them is by looking at their feet once they aare out of the water. They have dark legs with lovely yellow feet. We are now getting reports of cattle egrets moving into the country so who knows maybe in 20 years time these will also be a common sight.

Half-cocked

Little egrets seem to nest where herons are established. If there is a heronry nearby, you'll probably soon (if not already) have nesting egrets too.

Connacht

I saw a Great White Egret in Galway a few weeks ago. Fabulous bird.

lightening

I haven't seen the Great White Egret in Ireland, but the salt marshes in Dollymount is full of Little Egrets. You can get very close to them early in the morning if you approach the playing fields in the cover of trees in St. Annes park in Dublin.