Did you know that the Green Heron is a natural "fisherman"?
Green Herons, like the one shown here at the Aldo Leopold Nature Center, commonly drops bait onto the surface of the water and grabs small fish that are attracted.
Like any smart fisherman, it uses a variety of baits and lures to attract different catches and can be seen using insects, twigs, earthworms, or feathers to bait its prey. Now that breeding season is over, Green Herons can be seen "fishing" in our area, but you'll have to look carefully! Although they are common in watery habitats across much of North America, this bird can be difficult to spot because it spends a good deal of time standing motionless amid dense waterfront vegetation.
Here are some more cool facts about Green Herons to share with your young birder:
- Green Herons are part of a complex of small herons that sometimes are considered one species. When lumped, they are called Green-backed Heron. When split, they are the Green Heron, the widespread Striated Heron, and the Galapagos Heron.
- Green Herons tend to wander after the breeding season is over, seeking favorable foraging areas and do not travel far, but occasionally some travel greater distances, with individuals turning up as far as England and France.
Green Herons typically lay 2-6 pale, green eggs per season
Green Herons nests resemble a basket of sticks, placed in small tree or shrub, usually over water. Nests in small, loose colonies.
Happy birding!
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