American egret?

[Marnie]

This morning at a pond in the Don Valley I saw a snow-white, very large bird. I'd say it was about the size of a great blue heron. It stood up tall, with its neck straight. I couldn't say what colour the bill or legs were, and I couldn't get a picture. (Wish I hadn't tried, because I scared it away, sigh.) I'm guessing American egret. What do you think?

[christie]

probably a great egret they are common around here.

[Marnie]

Thanks Christie. I wondered why that wasn't in my field guide, but a little checking around tells me that "American Egret" is the old name and "Great Egret" is what's in use now. Time to update my 30-year-old Peterson, maybe!