Purple Heron look-alikes
Ardea purpurea
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Purple Heron. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Grey Heron
Ardea cinerea
Key differences
The Purple Heron is smaller, more slender, and has a distinctly rufous-purple plumage compared to the Grey Heron's grey and white. The Purple Heron's neck is chestnut with black streaks, and its flight appears darker and more hunched. Grey Herons have a white neck with a single black stripe and are generally paler.
Great Egret
Ardea alba
Key differences
Great Egrets are entirely white with a yellow bill and black legs, making them easily distinguishable from the dark, rufous Purple Heron. Great Egrets are also generally larger and less secretive.
Squacco Heron
Ardeola ralloides
Key differences
Squacco Herons are much smaller, stockier, and have a buffy-brown back with a white belly and wings (conspicuous in flight). Their head and neck are streaked buff and brown. The Purple Heron is significantly larger and has a distinct rufous-purple coloration.
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