Snowy Egret
Egretta thula
Snowy egrets can be seen year-round at the Hayward Shoreline. They stand in shallow water and catch fish, crabs, and other small animals with their beaks. In breeding season, they grow long, wispy feathers on their heads and backs, for which they were extensively hunted, until it was banned in 1910. They have a wingspan of up to 3.25 feet.
Identifying characteristics:
All white feathers, yellow feet, and a black beak.