Switzerland Has a New Breeding Bird

Cattle Egret Breeds in Switzerland for the First Time

For the first time, the cattle egret has bred in our country.

This is the culmination of a longer development. For several years now, increasing numbers of these small white herons have been observed here.

The cattle egret displays arguably the most spectacular expansion history of all birds. Until as recently as the 19th century, it was found only in sub-Saharan Africa. This was followed by an unprecedented worldwide expansion: it colonised every continent except Antarctica and also established itself in Europe, where around 90’000 pairs now breed.

This expansion in Europe also made itself felt in Switzerland: within just a few years, it has transformed from a rare spring visitor into a year-round resident species. Probably from a group of nearly 40 cattle egrets wintering in Ticino, a pair formed this year and successfully raised a brood of four young — for the first time in Switzerland.

Protected Areas Are Crucial

The fact that the cattle egrets are breeding in a protected area demonstrates that, despite their adaptability, they are sensitive to disturbance during the breeding season. Further heron species are on the doorstep of Switzerland and could breed here — if wetlands are restored and protected from disturbance. More on the topics of species protection and biodiversity.

The cattle egret is entirely white with a yellow bill, and therefore resembles a great egret, but is considerably smaller. During the breeding season, it develops an extravagant display plumage. It gets its name from its distinctive behaviour: it likes to stay in the immediate vicinity of buffalo and cattle, as well as horses and sheep, and darts after insects that the animals disturb.

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