Bubulcus ibis | cattle egret

Cattle Egret, photo by Sherman Wing

Introduced

The cattle egret is extremely widespread since its introduction to Hawaiʻi from Florida in 1959 to control insect pests. Easy to spot, these 20-inch long white birds are often seen in large groups, usually near ponds. Look for their perfect “V” formation as they fly in flocks. They pose a threat to native water birds as they are aggressive chick hunters.

The map below shows hotspots along our birding trails where you might see this bird.

Hotspots for cattle egret

Reset Map