Great Blue Heron Rookery – 6/15/13

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/15/13

Observation Time: 1:40 p.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Great Blue Heron Rookery

Scientific Name: Ardea herodias

Comments: These three juvenile herons were occupying a huge nest in a big tree, waiting for their parents to bring food. They will fly away soon to fend for themselves.

Note the eyes of the right-most bird in the photo. Being able to look down has obvious utility for a wading hunter. Although Great Blue Herons have a wingspan of around six feet, they only weigh about five pounds because they have hollow bones. This helps them fly. They can live up to 24 years, according to banding records.

Great Blue Herons prey on fish, amphibians, reptiles, insects, rodents, and even birds.

More Information: All About Birds