Taken at Slimbridge, Gloucs, on January 31st 2024. (© David Hastings)
(1/1000th sec at f8. Click image for larger version)
Taken at Farmoor, Oxon., on May 24th 2018. (© David Hastings)
(1/400th sec at f13. Click image for larger version)

Description

L: 84 - 102cm (neck extended); WS: 155 - 175cm

This is the largest European heron. It can stand with neck stretched out, looking for food, or hunch down with its neck bent over its chest.

The Grey Heron is widely distributed in the British Isles and western Europe.

It can be found on river banks, lake shores and brackish coastal bays. Nests are built in trees.

Herons are usually solitary. They stalk their prey (small fish, small birds and amphibians), often standing motionless for some time. They usually feed close to the bank or shore, but may wade out into shallow water.

It has green status on the UK list. Approximately 14000 pairs breed, and around 61000 birds over-winter here.

Sightings