I have to credit a cyclist for noticing this green heron first in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. I stayed about 20 minutes myself to get multiple shots. At one point, the heron went inside a bush and I had to adjust how I laid down and squatted to get views with the fewest branches in the way.
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For birdwatchers, there is nothing quite like the thrill of spotting a bird in nature. The green heron is one such species that can be hard to spot but offers a rewarding experience for any avid birder.
The green heron is a small heron species that usually measures between 13-15 inches in length and has a wingspan of 24-26 inches. It is mostly dark brown or blackish in color with lighter brown feathers on its neck and chest. Its head has distinct white streaks running across it, while its bill is yellow with a black tip. The most distinguishing feature of the green heron is its bright green back feathers, which you may catch a glimpse of if you are lucky enough to spot one. I think they look blue, but they’re called green herons.
They are found near shallow water sources such as wetlands, ponds, streams, and rivers. They feed mainly on small fish but also eat frogs and insects when they can find them. They hunt by standing still on shore or wading into shallow water until they spot their prey. Once they have caught something, they will swallow it whole or carry it back to their nest for later consumption.
Green herons are notoriously hard to spot because of their small size and camouflage colors. If you do see one however, you’re likely to hear its distinctive call first—a loud “kuk-kuk-kuk-kuk” sound that carries far through open spaces like marshes or fields. When looking for a green heron in nature, pay close attention to the reeds along shorelines as well as any trees around bodies of water—these birds tend to roost in trees close by where they hunt for food during the day.
With some patience and practice however, you should be able to locate at least one if you know where to look and listen out for their calls. I hope you’re successful in your search in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
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