Grey heron

Description:

Grey herons are comparable in size to Great blue herons of North America. Body length in Grey herons typically ranges from 84 to 102 cm. Like all Ardea species, Grey herons are fairly large birds. In contrast, other genera of herons, such as Ardeola species, rarely exceed average body lengths of 49 cm. Body weight of Grey herons typically ranges from 0.226 to 1.36 kg. This species exhibits a distinct arched wing when flying, with a wingspan of 155 to 175 cm. As their common name suggests, Grey herons have predominantly grey plumage covering their wings, dorsum, and most of the neck. Subspecies Ardea cinerea monicae is distinguished by its lighter plumage and shorter crest. In all Grey heron adults, the head is white with long black feathers that extend from the eyes to the beginning of the neck, forming a large, impressive crest. Juveniles retain a dark crown of grey feathers into their first winter, after which they begin to develop the white forehead and distinctive black crest typical of adults. Grey herons have yellow bills through most of the year, but these acquire an orange tint during the breeding season. As with other herons, Grey herons fly with their head pulled back toward the body while keeping their legs extended behind them. This body positioning during flight distinguishes herons from cranes, which fly with their neck extended.

Habitat:

Grey herons are very hardy and generally adapt well to new environments. However, for continuous habitation, Grey heron populations require locations that experience at least four months of warm weather. These warmer periods are necessary for laying eggs and early development of chicks. Grey herons also require some type of shallow body of water, which they use as their primary forage sites. These bodies of water may include saltwater or brackish inlets and estuaries, freshwater rivers, streams, lakes, or marshes, and even aquacultures used in fish farming. Roosting requirements vary by geographic region; however, many individuals choose to roost in branches at or near the top of taller trees. If trees are unavailable, grey herons may roost in dense brush or undergrowth.

Notes:

Spotted on a flood plain of the Ijssel river in rural area of Deventer, Holland.