American Egret foraging the wrack line – Nikon D200, handheld, f8, 1/640, ISO 160, Nikkor 80-400mm VR at 400mm, natural light, not baited
Five years ago today I photographed this American Egret foraging in a wrack line along the Gulf of Mexico in Florida at Fort De Soto.
A wrack line is the line of seaweed, algae, dying grasses, seeds, sponges, egg cases, and other debris that accumulates on beaches from the last high tide.
Wrack lines may also contain driftwood and trash that has been in the water.
For birds it can be a smorgasbord because of the small invertebrates, eggs and bugs that are found there and at Fort De Soto the gulls, wading birds and shorebirds can be found poking through the wrack line for food.
In this image there is a preening Laughing Gull to the left of the American Egret’s bill and just to the right of the egret’s leg is a Ruddy Turnstone that was actively searching the wrack for food.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my American Egret photos plus facts and information about this species.
Update: Great Egrets were renamed American Egrets in October 2026, the scientific name was changed to Ardea egretta. This post has been updated to reflect those changes.
Thanks for reminding me of that term, wrack line. I love the hints of other birds in this shot, and the intent of the egret is so apparent. The coolest thing I see in the wrack line out here are the California beach hoppers. I have yet to photograph them well.
A smorgasboard for so many things. And a wonderful image. Thank you.
Beautiful capture of this stunning white bird!
Gorgeous!
Gorgeous bird…great composition as usual…
Not only do I enjoy your photographs immensely, but I also appreciate all the information that you provide in your narratives. Thank you so much.
A brilliant image Mia, excellent photo.