Grey Heron

It feeds mainly on fish, but also eats small mammals (even Moles!), waterbirds (sometimes up to the size of a Coot) and Crayfish.

It is often seen standing stock-still in the shallow waters of lakes, rivers and ponds, patiently hunting fish flitting about below the surface. It will visit gardens with ornamental ponds, looking for an easy meal.

How to Identify

Easily recognised, grey-backed bird, with long legs, a long, white neck, bright yellow beak and a black eye-stripe which continues as long drooping feathers down the neck. Flies with its long legs stretched out but its neck pulled in.

Where to Find

Found throughout the countryside, wherever there are fish to eat.

How People Can Help

The survival of our waterbirds is threatened by the loss and degradation of many of our wetland habitats. The Wildlife Trusts manage many wetland nature reserves for the benefit of the wildlife they support. You can help by supporting your local Trust and becoming a member; you’ll find out about exciting wildlife happenings, events on your doorstep and volunteering opportunities, and be helping local wildlife along the way.

Did you know?

Herons nest in colonies called ‘Heronries’, often in the top of trees where they make their large, ungainly nests out of twigs.