Herons & Egrets in Rutland

5 species matching this filter.

All birds in RutlandView family page

Rutland, England's smallest county, is home to 5 recorded species of herons and egrets, making it a rewarding destination for birdwatchers interested in these elegant waterbirds. The centrepiece of the county's wetland habitats is Rutland Water, one of the largest reservoirs in England, which provides ideal feeding and breeding grounds for species such as the Grey Heron, Little Egret, and the elusive Eurasian Bittern. In recent years, sightings of scarcer visitors like the Great White Egret and Cattle Egret have become increasingly frequent, reflecting broader population trends across the UK.

Cattle Egret
Cattle EgretSmallest · 46cm
to
Great White Egret
Great White EgretLargest · 104cm
Ranges from the Cattle Egret (46cm) to the Great White Egret (104cm)3 year-round residents
Cattle Egret

Cattle Egret

Bubulcus ibisLC

A rare but increasing breeder, part of this species' recent colonisation of England, favouring pastures near Rutland Water.

Mar–Nov

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Eurasian Bittern

Eurasian Bittern

Botaurus stellarisLC

A rare and secretive visitor to Rutland Water's reedbeds, most likely encountered in winter when booming calls are absent.

Aug–May

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Great White Egret

Great White Egret

Ardea albaLC

Now a common year-round resident at Rutland Water, reflecting a remarkable national expansion. Easily seen stalking the shallows.

Year-round

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Grey Heron

Grey Heron

Ardea cinereaLC

A familiar sight year-round, standing motionless at the margins of Rutland Water and along streams and farm ponds across the county.

Year-round

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Little Egret

Little Egret

Egretta garzettaLC

Now a common resident after rapid range expansion, regularly seen along Rutland Water's shoreline and shallow lagoons throughout the year.

Year-round

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Frequently Asked Questions