The
Cattle Egret is a member of the Heron family.
Standing 20 inches high and weighing about 4
ounces, it is a slim, white bird with a long
neck, yellow beak and legs. This little Egret is
native to Spain, Asia, and Africa. In the
1800's, they migrated to South America. They are
now commonly found on every continent except
Antarctica.
In
Hawaii, they are commonly found on Kauai, Oahu,
Moloka'i, and Lana'i. They were introduced from
Florida in 1959 to help with insect control.
Local ranchers hoped the Egrets would control
flies and other insects which bother cattle. The
first 25 Egrets in Hawaii were released in
1959. A total of 105 Egrets were released at
Parker Ranch on Hawaii, Maui, Moloka'i Ranch and
at the Honolulu Zoo.
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