Herons & Egrets in South Yorkshire
6 species matching this filter.
South Yorkshire's wetlands, reservoirs and river corridors provide valuable habitat for six species of herons and egrets. The Grey Heron is a familiar sight along the region's waterways, while scarcer visitors such as the Great White Egret, Cattle Egret and Little Egret are increasingly being recorded as these species expand their range across Britain. The elusive Eurasian Bittern and the exceptionally rare Little Bittern round out this family, making South Yorkshire's reedbeds and marshes well worth exploring for keen birdwatchers.
Cattle Egret
Bubulcus ibisLC
A rare passage visitor, occasionally seen in August around livestock fields and wetland margins as the species expands its UK range.
Aug
Eurasian Bittern
Botaurus stellarisLC
A rare and secretive resident of extensive reedbeds, most reliably found at sites like Old Moor. Its booming call in spring is the best clue to its presence.
Year-round
Great White Egret
Ardea albaLC
An increasingly regular sight at wetland reserves and river valleys, reflecting a national range expansion. Tall and striking, it stands out among Little Egrets.
Year-round
Grey Heron
Ardea cinereaLC
A common year-round resident, readily seen along rivers, lakes and even garden ponds. Heronries are established at several sites in the region.
Year-round
Little Bittern
Ixobrychus minutusLC
An exceptionally rare June passage visitor from southern Europe. One of the scarcest herons to be recorded in the region.
Jun
Little Egret
Egretta garzettaLC
Now a common resident at wetland sites after a dramatic northward expansion. Regularly seen at Old Moor, Potteric Carr, and along river corridors.
Year-round