Herons & Egrets in London
5 species matching this filter.
London is home to 5 species of herons and egrets, from the familiar Grey Heron — a common sight along the Thames and in the capital's parks — to scarcer visitors such as the Eurasian Bittern and Great White Egret. The city's reservoirs, wetland reserves and canal networks provide vital habitat for these elegant waterbirds. For a broader look at the capital's avian residents, see our guide to the 20 Most Common Birds in London: Gardens, Parks & Urban Hotspots.
Cattle Egret
Bubulcus ibisLC
A rare late-summer passage visitor, part of a species expanding northward into Britain. Occasionally noted at wetland sites and reservoirs.
Aug–Oct
Eurasian Bittern
Botaurus stellarisLC
A rare winter visitor to London's larger reedbeds, present from November to February. Extremely secretive; more often heard booming than seen.
Nov–Feb
Great White Egret
Ardea albaLC
An increasingly regular sight at London's reservoirs and wetlands. A rare breeder, present from spring through autumn with some lingering into December.
Apr–Dec
Grey Heron
Ardea cinereaLC
A familiar sight along canals, park lakes, and the Thames year-round. Regent's Park hosts one of Britain's oldest heronries.
Year-round
Little Egret
Egretta garzettaLC
An increasingly established resident along the Thames and at reservoirs. Once a rarity, now regularly seen stalking shallow margins year-round.
Year-round