Non-Breeding Birds Distribution Map

Snowy Egret (Egretta thula)

The Washington Gap Analysis Project created breeding bird maps only. The non-breeding birds (e.g., wintering, pelagic (coastal), and birds expanding their ranges) are represented only by NatureMapping sightings.

The Washington Gap Analysis Project could not find any historical research records (i.e., Breeding Bird Atlas, Breeding Bird Survey, Bird Banding and Recovery) for 73 species of birds. The Snowy Egret is one of the species.

NatureMapping observations reported by townships throughout the year.

Species Distribution Information

Protected populations of this egret have recovered and its range is expanding. It winters in Florida and along the east coast of Mexico, as well as on the west coast as far north as California. Its breeding range stretches across various US states. Some post-breeding birds wander far north of the mapped range. This egret is a rare but regular visitor to eastern and western Washington, with an average of 1-2 birds annually since 1993. All Audubon sightings have been of single birds, ranging from late April to early November, mostly in spring (peak in May).