6park.comThe Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) is a large wading bird that belongs to the heron family, Ardeidae. It is found throughout North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and parts of South America. The Great Blue Heron is known for its distinctive appearance, with a long neck, a long bill, and grayish-blue plumage. 6park.comKey features of the Great Blue Heron include: 6park.comSize: It is one of the largest herons, standing about 3.2 to 4.5 feet (1 to 1.4 meters) tall, with a wingspan ranging from 5.5 to 6.6 feet (1.7 to 2 meters). 6park.comColoration: Adults typically have a blue-gray body, a white head with a black stripe above the eye, and a pair of black plumes extending from the back of the head. The neck can be extended or folded in an S-shape. 6park.comHabitat: Great Blue Herons are commonly found near bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, marshes, and coastal areas. They can be seen standing motionless or wading in shallow water, patiently waiting for prey. 6park.comDiet: Their diet consists mainly of fish, but they also consume amphibians, reptiles, insects, and small mammals. They are skilled hunters, using their sharp beaks to spear their prey. 6park.comBehavior: Great Blue Herons are known for their slow, deliberate flight and their ability to soar on thermals. They are generally solitary birds but can congregate in colonies during the breeding season. 6park.comBreeding: They build large stick nests in trees, often in colonies, and the breeding season varies depending on the region. The nests are usually situated near water. 6park.comThe Great Blue Heron is a charismatic and iconic species, frequently observed by birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts in its diverse range of habitats.