Great Egret Hunting In The Grass Next To The Roadside In The Everglades National Park. Stock Image

Pictured is a great egret standing in the grass next to the roadside in the Everglades National Park in Florida. The binomial name is Ardea alba. It is also known as the common egret, large egret, great white egret or great white heron. The species breeds in colonies in trees close to large lakes with reed beds or other extensive wetlands. The great egret forages in shallow water or drier habitats, feeding mainly on fish, frogs, other amphibians, small mammals, small reptiles, crustaceans, and insects. It normally impales its prey with its long sharp bill by standing still and allowing prey to come within striking distance.