The great blue heron (Ardea herodias) is a large wading bird in the heron family Ardeidae, common near the shores of open water and in wetlands over most of North and Central America, as well as far northwestern South America, the Caribbean and the Galápagos Islands.

The largest species of heron is the goliath heron, which stands up to 152 cm (60 in) tall. All herons can retract their necks by folding them into a tight S-shape, due to the modified shape of the cervical vertebrae, of which they have 20 or 21; the neck is retracted during flight, unlike most other long-necked birds.

Widespread and familiar (though often called 'crane'), the largest heron in North America. Often seen standing silently along inland rivers or lakeshores, or flying high overhead, with slow wingbeats, its head hunched back onto its shoulders.

May 22, 2024 · In the U.S. and Canada, there are 10 heron and egret species you’re likely to find, with more found in the south. These are nearly all water birds, so look for them at the beach, along the river’s edge, and in marshy wetlands.

Whether poised at a river bend or cruising the coastline with slow, deep wingbeats, the Great Blue Heron is a majestic sight. This stately heron with its subtle blue-gray plumage often stands motionless as it scans for prey or wades belly deep with long, deliberate steps.

Apr 4, 2025 · Great blue heron, well-known species of North American heron recognized for its blue-gray plumage and graceful, stately demeanor, its large size, and its wide wingspan. The species is the largest heron on the continent, and it occurs from Alaska, Canada, and the continental U.S. to Mexico, Central America, the islands of the Caribbean Sea, and ...

Oct 17, 2024 · The great blue heron is the largest heron species in North America, standing about 4 feet tall. But even though they are large birds, they don’t weigh much (only 5 to 6 pounds), thanks to their light, hollow bones (a trait most birds have).

Large, common, and widespread, the Great Blue Heron is perhaps the most familiar wading bird in North America. You might find it foraging near Green Herons and Red-winged Blackbirds in a wetland; or with Sanderlings and Great Egrets on a seashore; or …

Feb 20, 2020 · The great blue heron is the largest species of heron in North America. On average, great blue herons are about four feet tall standing erect. These birds have tremendous wing spans that averages about five and a half feet, and can go up to seven feet.

Feb 20, 2023 · Great Blue Herons reach a height of about four feet and can weigh well over five pounds. Their impressive wingspan can top six feet. Males are longer and heavier than females, which is a reliable way for scientists to distinguish between the sexes.