GREAT BLUE HERON

In Chinese tradition long necked birds such as cranes, egrets and herons represent longevity and good fortune. Please read on for more  information about these wonderful birds.

The Encylopedia Britannica says, "Herons are widely distributed over the world. They usually feed while wading quietly in shallow water (as in pools, marshes, and swamps), catching frogs, fishes, and other aquatic animals. They nest in bushes or trees near water; the nests usually are grouped in colonies called heronries.

Herons commonly stand with the neck bent in an S shape. They fly with the legs trailing loosely and the head held back against the body, instead of stretching the neck out in front as most birds do. They have broad long straight sharp-pointed bills, and powder downs, areas of feathers that continually disintegrate to a fine powder used for preening (absorbing and removing fish oil, scum, and slime from the plumage.)

Typical herons feed during the day. In breeding season they develop showy plumes on the back and participate in elaborate mutual-courtship posturing. Best known of the typical herons are the very large, long-legged and long-necked, plain-hued members of the genus Ardea -- especially the 50-inch great blue heron of North America, with a wingspan of 6 feet or more."

BLACK NIGHT HERON - GREAT BLUE HERON - GREAT WHITE EGRET

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