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Ardea herodias
Whether poised at a river bend or cruising the coastline with slow, deep wingbeats, the Great Blue Heron is a majestic sight. This stately heron with its subtle blue-gray plumage often stands motionless as it scans for prey or wades belly deep with long, deliberate steps. They may move slowly, but Great Blue Herons can strike like lightning to grab a fish or snap up a gopher. In flight, look for this widespread heron’s tucked-in neck and long legs trailing out behind.
Look for Great Blue Herons in saltwater and freshwater habitats, from open coasts, marshes, sloughs, riverbanks, and lakes to backyard goldfish ponds. They also forage in grasslands and agricultural fields. Breeding birds gather in colonies or “heronries” to build stick nests high off the ground.
Watched the Heron try to eat its catch for about five minutes. I believe it is a small catfish?
Spotted on Jun 2, 2012
Submitted on Jun 2, 2012
7 Comments
They often wait until the catch stops struggling and goes limp, then point the bill upwards, open wide, and suck it down with lots of convulsions to its neck. I watched a Cattle Egret with a very large Grasshopper once and it took 15-20 minutes but it went down eventually! Great capture for both of you!
I enjoyed watching the Heron. Cat has me up early for her meds. I will be off for my morning walk soon. Who know what I will see today. I also say this yr's first Green Heron yesterday too. But it kept its distance.
lovely photos - I like the water too - nice patterns and reflections.
great series, thanks for sharing
Beautiful series Laurie
Never got it down that I saw, but it was not for lack of trying
. As I was watching a Osprey was flying over the same pond.
Wonderful series!! Did it finally get the catfish down??