Ascension : Cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) Visits Ascension
Submitted by The Islander (Conservation Office) 01.05.2008 (Article Archived on 15.05.2008)

During last week seven Cattle Egrets were seen around the island and, another sighting of tow egrets were seen outside Clarence House, Georgetown.

Cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis)

During last week seven Cattle Egrets were seen around the island and, another sighting of tow egrets were seen outside Clarence House, Georgetown.

We do get occasional visits from the Cattle Egrets from time to time, it is not unusual to see them around.

Several bird species have been recorded as accidental visitors to St Helena and Ascension. Among these, only Cattle Egrets have turned up often enough to be considered a regular. This species is a great wanderer. Its original natural range is central Africa and Southern Asia but expanded greatly in the 20^th century when cattle egrets crossed the Atlantic and became established in the Americas.

They are small stork white herons with a relatively short neck. During the breeding season, the crown and back are orange-buff. All egrets seen on Ascension have been all white, non-breeding or immature birds. In flight, the neck is folded back against the shoulders.

They are frequently found well away from water and obtain most of its food in dry habitats. Following herds of cattle or other large grazing animals to feed on insects and other small animals disturbed by their hooves and will peck parasites, such as ticks, from the skins of livestock. Feed mainly on insects but will also take fish, frogs,  small reptiles, mice, birds’ eggs and small nestlings.

Picture of Cattle Egret from website: www.giffbeaton.com