Bird · GBIF taxon 9797180
Grey Heron
Ardea cinereaAlso known as Gray Heron
The Grey Heron is a tall blue-gray wader with a white neck, black head stripe, and dagger-like bill. It waits motionless or stalks slowly before striking at aquatic prey.
Wading BirdPatient HunterWetland Generalist
1 / 7—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Fish
- Frogs
- Small mammals
Predators
- Large raptors
- Foxes
ThreatsWetland loss, persecution, fishing-line entanglement, and polluted water
HabitatsRivers, lakes, marshes, estuaries, coasts, and urban ponds
Life spanOften 5 to 15 years; exceptional birds exceed 20 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyArdeidae
- SpeciesArdea cinerea
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Give hunting birds and nesting colonies a generous buffer.
Responsible observation
- Posture: Note the folded neck in flight, unlike a crane.
- Patience: Watch a still bird for the sudden forward strike.
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