Great Blue Heron
Image: Joshua Jones (cc-by-nc)
NameGreat Blue Heron
Common NameGreat Blue Heron
Scientific NameArdea herodias
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)183
Length (cm)117
Weight (g)2200
Plumage DetailsAdults have a blue-grey body, a white head with a distinctive black stripe extending from the eye to the back of the head, and a long, yellowish-orange bill. The neck is typically grey, and the legs are dark.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of harsh, guttural croaks and squawks, often described as 'frahnk-frahnk-frahnk', especially when disturbed or in flight.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatswetlands, marshes, rivers, lakes, coastal areas, ponds
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound throughout North and Central America, the Caribbean, and the Galápagos Islands. It breeds in Canada and the northern United States and migrates south for the winter, though many populations are resident year-round.
Identifying Featureslarge size, blue-grey plumage, long S-curved neck, yellowish-orange dagger-like bill, white head with black stripe above eye, long dark legs
Description
The Great Blue Heron is a large wading bird with a stately presence, often seen standing motionless in shallow water, patiently waiting to ambush prey. It is known for its long legs, S-curved neck, and dagger-like bill, which it uses to spear fish and other aquatic animals.
