A large, gray bird that is frequently found wading at the edge of ponds, rivers, or marshes using its keen senses to detect prey. This common bird stands about 4 ft. tall, has a wingspan of about 7 ft., and is frequently mistaken for a crane. Unlike a crane, which flies with its neck outstretched like a goose, the Great Blue Heron flies with its neck folded back in an S-shape against its shoulders.
Wetland, Coastal
During the spring and summer, they breed throughout North and Central America, the Caribbean, southern Canada and the Galapagos. Some populations migrate to Central and South America during the winter months, but do not breed there.
Common
Diurnal
Primarily fish
Great blue herons are mainly active in the mornings and at dusk when fishing is best. They are stalk-and-strike hunters that visually locate prey and thus hunt during daylight. They are solitary predators however, they do often breed in rookeries and during the night they will sleep with flocks of over 100 other herons. Great blue herons are also extremely territorial and will aggressively defend their nests. This species is mostly migratory, but populations of the southern United States may remain in one region year-round.
Least Concern
