UK Little Egret and Great White Egret Conservation
Conservation and welfare of egrets expanding their range into the UK from continental Europe.
Key Facts
Little egrets colonised the UK in the 1990s and now number over 700 breeding pairs
Great white egrets have bred in the UK since 2012 and are expanding their range
Both species benefit from improved water quality and reduced shooting pressure
Wet grassland, reedbeds, and shallow lakes are primary habitats
Both species are sensitive to wetland disturbance during breeding season
Welfare Considerations
Egrets expanding into the UK face welfare risks from habitat disturbance and cold winters, with wetland management and protection supporting their welfare.
What You Can Do
Support wetland conservation organisations managing egret breeding habitats
Record little and great white egret sightings to assist population monitoring
Advocate for wetland habitat creation in development planning