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Gray Heron

Silhouette HeronsHerons
Gray HeronArdea cinerea
  • ORDER: Pelecaniformes
  • FAMILY: Ardeidae

Basic Description

With its long legs and elegant neck the Gray Heron strikes a regal pose as it stands motionless in shallow water, waiting to strike at unsuspecting fish. During the breeding season, these large herons join treetop breeding colonies where they showcase their exquisite breeding plumes in courtship displays and work tirelessly to feed a nest full of chattering, insatiable chicks. Gray Heron, found in Europe, Asia, and Africa, is one of three very similar herons worldwide, together with Great Blue Heron of North America and Cocoi Heron of South America.

More ID Info
image of range map for Gray Heron
Year-roundBreedingMigrationNonbreeding
Range map provided by Birds of the World
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Other Names

  • Garza Real (Spanish)
  • Héron cendré (French)
  • Cool Facts