The number of Western Cattle Egrets in Jubail appears to be increasing year on year and in late April we saw at least 25 birds with some of the birds coming into full breeding plumages. It was previously a scarce species in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia but since the 2000’s good numbers of birds were seen that have increased to toady’s numbers slowly over the last ten years. Birds are now seen on most trips to Jubail, whereas in the past they were only seen rarely. They are normally quite confiding and allow close approach in the car, allowing for good photos to be taken.
