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Species Description
The Cattle Egret is often found foraging alongside herds of cattle. As the cattle move they disturb insects and small amphibians which the egrets prey upon. Since the nineteenth century the Cattle Egret has been increasing its distribution. Originally found in tropical and subtropical Africa and Asia and parts of Spain and Portugal, populations are now found worldwide in tropical and temperate zones. Adult Cattle Egrets are mostly white however during the breeding season they develop orange plumage on the back and around the head. Their eyes will also change to a bright red color. When courting, male Cattle Egrets will sit in trees and perform a ritualized display involving shaking a twig and pointing to the sky with its beak to attract a mate. Cattle Egrets are favored by cattle ranchers because they help to control parasites like ticks and flies.