Great or Medium Egret? (Vedanthangal, India) (1 Viewer)

[clamatorjacobinus]

Dear birdwatchers, I saw this egret at Vedanthangal bird sanctuary in Tamil Nadu, India, yesterday (Feb 25, 2024). I apologize for the poor picture, but maybe it's just enough to allow identification? I'm hesitating between Great Egret and Medium Egret. The size is difficult to estimate, but the short bill and straight neck make me think Medium Egret. Any insights would be appreciated!

 

[Butty]

Welcome to BF.
I rather think the bill-depth and bill/forehead-shape are good for great egret, though the photo-quality is too low (no offence) to judge bill-length or to differentiate the gape-pattern from intermediate egret. Pass.

 

[KC Foggin]

After doing a google search I couldn't reallly tell but I would lilke to wish you a warm welcome from the members of BirdForum.. We're glad you joined us

 

[johnallcock]

Upright posture, rather short neck with thick base and bill shape all look like Medium to me, and the habitat (hunting in a field rather than in open water) also fits better for Medium.

 

[Dimitris]

Intermediate Egret

 

[clamatorjacobinus]

Thank you for the helpful replies!