The great egret is a large, elegant bird known for its striking white plumage and long neck. It typically stands about 3 to 4 feet tall and has a wingspan of up to 5.5 feet. This bird is commonly found in wetlands, marshes, and along shorelines, where it hunts for fish, frogs, and other small aquatic animals. Great egrets are often seen wading in shallow waters, using their sharp beaks to catch prey. They are migratory birds, moving to warmer regions during the winter months. Their population has rebounded since the late 19th century, thanks to conservation efforts and legal protections against hunting for their feathers, which were once highly sought after for fashion.