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Description
The grey heron is a large, slender wading bird that fishes along ditches, rivers, and lakes. It's recognizable by its grey-blue plumage and white head with a black stripe. Its call is a harsh screech.
Behavior
Herons stand motionless for hours waiting for fish. They're wary of people and will take flight when you're still 100 meters away. They nest in large groups in treetops (heronries).
What to do
No action needed. Enjoy the bird. Avoid sudden movements when photographing it so you don't scare it off.
Pro tip
Herons sometimes raid a garden fish pond. String wire between metal stakes about 10 cm above the water line — that keeps them away without harming them.
Interesting fact
Herons can use their bill like a spear with a strike accuracy over 95%. They catch fish up to 50 cm long.
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