GENERAL INFORMATION

The Herons are often mistaken for "cranes". Herons have an S-shaped curve in their long neck, which is comprised of 15-17 vertebrate. Unlike cranes, the Heron holds its head near the body while in flight, although in taking flight and landing it will extend its neck. The Green Herons are from the order Ciconiiformes and are adapted for wading in shallow water. These long-legged waders usually nest in colonies. The Green Heron is also known as the "Green-Backed Heron".

DESCRIPTION

The Green Heron is about 16-22" tall, with a bluish back and a deep chestnut neck. When it gets excited it raises its crest and jerks its tail, which makes the bird look bigger and more frightening. This small wading bird breeds throughout the Carolinas, usually preferring streams, swamps, lakes, ponds, or marshes. These birds use their long necks and long pointed bills for catching their prey in or near water.

HABITS AND HABITATS

They feed on fish, frogs, crawfish, and other aquatic life. They may also feed on insects or mice. The Green Heron slowly stalks its prey or may crouch and wait for the food to come by. Another way they may obtain their food is to rake the bottom of the shallow water with their feet and stir up prey. Occasionally, the bird will perch on a post or tree and dive into the water after its prey. They also have been known to incorporate "tools" in their fishing. One Green Heron was spotted using a feather to attract small fish to the surface! The Green Heron has an interesting courtship display. The male erects his neck plumes, swells his throat, and calls while hopping from foot to foot in front of the female! These birds are monogamous and have 1-2 broods each year. Each brood may have 2-7 light greenish/bluish-green eggs. The nests are made of sticks and twigs and may be built in trees or shrubs, or on a tussock in emergent vegetation. You may recognize the Green Heron from its call, a "skeow" is an alarm call, and it has a peevish cry of "fly-up-the-creek!"

HISTORY

The name Heron comes from the Middle English name "herons". Carolus Linnaeus, the father of scientific taxonomy, was the person who first applied the Latinized name to the Green Heron.

INFORMATION LINKS

Birder.com
National Audubon Society


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