This small, snow-white heron has a slender dark bill, blackish legs, and yellowish feet, often called “golden slippers.” During the breeding season, adults feature two long, wispy head plumes and a spray of white plumes, or “aigrettes,” on the lower back. It inhabits various wetlands, including lakes, rivers, marshes, and estuaries—essentially anywhere with small fish. Typically found alone or in small, loose groups, it nests and roosts communally. While distinctive within its range, it can be compared to the larger Great and Intermediate Egrets, the stockier Cattle Egret, and white morph reef herons.