At first glance, you might confuse a western cattle egret with other white egrets. To make sure you’re seeing the correct species, look for a medium-sized bird with a compact neck, shorter neck.

Proof of this phenomenon was posted recently by the Corolla Wild Horse Fund: a photo of a horse named Amadeo Jr. ambling around with a 2-foot-tall cattle egret on its back. More egrets can be seen ...