Great Egret

The Great Egret (Ardea alba), with its striking white plumage and graceful stature, is a prominent wader in the Sundarbans—the world's largest mangrove forest. This elegant bird thrives in the region's tidal mudflats, estuaries, and shallow wetlands, where it patiently stalks fish, amphibians, and crustaceans. Its long black legs and dagger-like bill make it a skilled hunter, often seen gliding silently across the water's edge or perched among the mangrove roots.

In the Sundarbans, Great Egrets are typically solitary but may gather in colonies during the breeding season, often nesting alongside other herons and egrets. Their presence is a vital indicator of the health of the mangrove ecosystem, which supports over 270 bird species. As climate change and habitat degradation threaten the delicate balance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, the continued survival of the Great Egret serves as both a symbol of resilience and a reminder of the need for conservation in this biodiverse haven.