Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Great Blue Heron

Scientific name: Ardea herodias


Great Blue Heron

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: ARDEIDAE

Group: Birds

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 30 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.03-31.05

Gestation: 26–30 jours

Births: 56–60 jours


Habitat:
Marshes, rivers, lakes

Description:
The Great Blue Heron, Ardea herodias, is a majestic bird native to North America's wetlands. With an impressive wingspan of up to 2 meters, it is easily recognized by its blue-gray plumage, white head with a black stripe, and long yellow bill. It inhabits marshes, rivers, and lakes, feeding mainly on fish, but also on small mammals and insects. Its flight is slow and powerful, with deep wing beats. The Great Blue Heron is a solitary bird, although it may gather in colonies for nesting. It builds its nest in trees or shrubs, often high up to avoid predators.

Recommended lens:
>=400mm

Photography tips:
To photograph the Great Blue Heron, it's advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images without disturbing the bird. Approach slowly and remain discreet to avoid scaring it away. The best photos are often taken early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is soft. Try to capture the bird in flight to showcase its impressive wingspan.

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