Strolling along Beverley Brook in Richmond Park just before Christmas, I was intent on seeing a kingfisher.

Then, about 50 metres ahead I spotted what at first glance appeared to be a trio of gulls wading in the shallow brook.

Binoculars akimbo, I was delighted to see that the birds were little egrets.

Smaller and more elegant than the grey heron the egret sports snow white plumage; long slender black bill; black legs; long plumes on hind neck and somewaht oddly, bright yellow feet.

Disturbed by dogs, the egrets flew up into a large bankside oak but returned when safe to do so.

The little egret is a comparative newcomer to Britain. I  saw my first one in the New Forest 15 years ago since when it has bred and spread rapidly to colonise, especially in the West Country.

Morden Hall Park's marshy area occasionally plays host to the species in winter. Most adults migrate to central Africa in winter and around the Mediterranean but Britain is also a chosen winter destination now.

Egrets feed on small fish such as sticklebacks and water insects using their feet to stir up the mud.

Being a recent addition to our bird list,some earlier field guides don't even include it.

Like the heron, egrets nest in trees and tall bushes, usually in colonies.

Of kingfisher's colourful radiance there was no sign but I fely fully compensated in the form of such pure white beauty.