This large, stately bird has over a 6-foot wingspan. Look for herons near both fresh and salt water. They sit motionless along the shoreline of lakes and rivers waiting and watching. When fish are spotted, they use lightning speed to strike. Great blue herons curl their necks into an S shape for more aerodynamic flying. This unusual shape also allows them to quickly strike their prey from a distance. Some great blue herons winter in Mexico and Central America.
"Yesterday I got within a few feet of a great blue heron. He was fishing in the Rouge River right below me. Once he caught a fish, he flew off." Detroit, Michigan 07/15/14
Roxanne Townshend
