The term 'long-necked waders' refers to two species of birds, egrets and herons. Egrets are large white birds with long necks and long legs, while herons are larger gray or blue-gray birds with long necks and long legs. Both species inhabit wetlands and can be seen wading in shallow water in search of food. They are both important members of the wetland ecosystem, providing food for other animals and helping to keep the water clean.