Heron
Nature's most accomplished fisherman, the grey heron is known for its motionless stance at the water's edge.
In fact, this graceful pose is most frequently seen replicated by imitation herons, procured to guard the contents of ornamental fish-ponds. However, heron enthusiasts can spot the real thing waiting patiently for prey on waterways up and down the country.
Grey herons (Ardea cinerea) are prevalent throughout Europe, Africa and also in Asia. They typically breed in woodland areas that are close to the water and can be spotted around lakes, estuaries, ponds, rivers and even coastal marshes. Herons are adaptable birds and will feed in any water be it fresh, salt, clear or muddy, so long as it will yield a catch. Herons can stand for several minutes with their necks tensed, waiting for an unsuspecting fish to swim into reach. Alternatively, they will stalk the shallows searching for food. Then, quick as a flash, they will dart down and spear the prey with a long dagger-like bill.
The grey heron is the only member of the heron family to be commonly found in Britain. You will be lucky to catch a glimpse of the bittern, which is very scarce, or the egret, which is a rare visitor. Thankfully, the grey heron population is doing well in the UK and despite the ever present danger of starvation over the cold winter months, is more abundant now than ever before.
Facts
Appearance: Large and long-legged with an S-shaped neck. The back and wings are coloured grey, neck and under-parts are white. Herons have white heads, black wispy crests and a long and pointed yellow bill
Size: 84-102cm in length, 155-175cm wingspan
Weight: 1,500-2,000g
Lifespan: Maximum 25 years
Diet: Primarily fish and amphibians. However, herons can also feed on small rodents, reptiles and birds
Family: Ardeidae
Did you know?
- Adult herons can fly up to 30km away from home to visit good hunting sites
- The grey heron is Britain's largest common bird after the mute swan
- Heron nests can measure 3 foot across
- Some British herons migrate to France, Spain and Portugal for the winter. Birds native to colder countries such as Norway and Sweden choose to winter in the UK
- Placing a plastic heron next to your fishpond is more likely to attract rather than deter other herons
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