Great Egrets and Undigested Crayfish

Located in the heart of the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma, Miner’s Cove is currently a hub of activity thanks to an abundance of crayfish. This small area boasts a diverse range of birds and other wildlife, all drawn to the rich feeding opportunities presented by the crayfish. During my latest visit, I had the privilege of capturing two Great Egrets in the act of regurgitating some undigested crayfish – a fascinating display of the intricacies of the food chain in action.

To capture these incredible moments, I arrived well before daybreak while it was still dark, ensuring that I could set up my equipment without disturbing the birds. Parking my pickup on the side of the road, I used the vehicle as a blind, allowing me to photograph the wildlife without causing any disruptions. My camera and lens were positioned on a beanbag draped over the open window of my pickup, providing the necessary support for my shots.

Observing the Great Egrets regurgitating crayfish was a remarkable experience, highlighting the complex relationships that exist within the ecosystem. As always, it was an honor to witness and photograph these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat, and I look forward to sharing more of my wildlife photography adventures with you in the future.

Why do Great Egrets Regurgitate Crayfish?

• Great Egrets regurgitate crayfish because they are a part of their diet. These birds feed on a variety of prey items, including fish, frogs, snakes, insects, and crustaceans like crayfish. When they catch a crayfish, they use their sharp beak to crush the shell and extract the meat. However, the indigestible parts of the crayfish, such as the exoskeleton, are regurgitated as pellets.
• Regurgitation of pellets is a common behavior in many bird species, especially those that consume hard-to-digest prey like crayfish. These pellets usually contain a mixture of undigested food items, such as bones, feathers, and shells, along with digestive fluids and waste.
• Regurgitation of pellets also helps birds to get rid of unwanted materials that may have accumulated in their digestive system. By expelling these indigestible parts, they can maintain a healthy digestive tract and efficiently digest their food.

Note: The first photo above was used in a book “A Feathered Honor: My Photo in Ed Drewitt’s Book!”