Herons

Species	64 to 67 species
Diet	Carnivore
Height	10 inches to 5 ft
Wingpsan	20 inches to 7 ft 7 inches
Weight	2 oz to 11 lb
Lifespan	Up to 25 years
Conservation Status	Varies
Classification	Aves > Pelecaniformes > Ardeidae
Habitat	Around the edges of lakes, rivers, oceans, etc.

Herons are long-legged, long-necked wading birds in the family Ardeidae. They can be found in freshwater and coastal wetlands around the world. These elegant birds come in a variety of sizes. Herons are patient predators, using their sharp beaks to spear fish, frogs, insects, and small mammals. They often stand very still in shallow water, waiting for prey to come close before striking. Herons are social birds and can often be seen breeding in colonies, where they build nests in trees or on the ground.

Places

Worldwide, except Antarctica

The Goliath heron is the largest at up to 5 feet tall, and the dwarf bittern is the smallest at just under a foot tall.
Herons, after catching a fish, will toss it in the air and catch it again head-first, making sure it goes down smoothly and fins don’t get stuck in their throat!
Male herons aren’t shy when it comes to attracting mates. During breeding season, some species grow elaborate decorations like plumes or special neck feathers, putting on a dazzling display to impress the females.
They sometimes spread their wings wide open to cool down on hot days, looking like they’re doing a unique feathery sun worshiping pose.

134	July 10, 2024	(North America)
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