A dark, crow-sized heron with a blue back and wings, chestnut neck with a white line down the front, black cap, and short yellow-orange legs. This small bird does not look much like a heron. It typically stands very still at the water’s edge and waits to ambush its prey, sometimes dropping food on the water’s surface to attract fish.
Wetland, Coastal
Green herons have a wide range in North America, but are generally found near wetlands. They occur as far north as southern Canada and as far south as northern South America. They are found throughout the eastern United States as far west as North Dakota and the Great Plains states, although some sedentary populations occur on the west coast. During the breeding season they are found primarily in the eastern United States, with some populations in the Pacific Northwest as well.
Common
Diurnal
Mainly fish and invertebrates
Green herons are shy birds so are rarely observed, although they may be quite common. They are active during the day. They have a characteristic slow, deliberate walk and in flight they have slow and steady wingbeats. They may also swim on occasion in pursuit of prey.
Green herons are important predators of fish and invertebrates in the aquatic ecosystems where they live.
Least Concern
