Great Blue Heron Rookery – 6/26/10

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/26/10

Observation Time: 3:10 p.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Great Blue Heron Rookery

Scientific Name: Ardea herodias

Comments: Comments: The great blue heron nest shown in the photos below was part of a rookery consisting of many heron nests clustered in a pine grove.

While walking in the woods on a summer afternoon, we heard a clattering cacaphony, and followed out ears to find out what was making the racket. We came to a place where the forest floor was splotched in white guano. We looked up and saw many huge nests scattered among the tall pine trees.

It appears from the photo that the juvenile herons were as interested in us as we were in them. Note how their eyes stick out a little and are able to swivel so they can peer downwards. I imagine this trait is useful when the herons are wading around the edge of a pond looking for fish.

This observation occurred late in the nesting season when the young herons were almost ready to fly away.

More Information: All About Birds