Grey Heron
Ardea cinerea

RSPB Conservation Status – Green

Last seen – 6-4-23

The Grey Heron is a large bird.

The bird’s plumage is predominantly grey, with white and black markings on its wings and tail.

The bird has a distinctive, long, yellow bill, which it uses to catch its prey.

 

 

Facts

Population – 13,000 nests (breeding) 63,000 birds (wintering)

Length – 90 – 98 cm

Wingspan – 175 – 195 cm

Weight – 1,500 – 2,000 g

Breeding

Grey Herons typically breed between February and April, building their nests in trees near water.

The female lays a clutch of 2-5 eggs, which she incubates for around 25-26 days.

The chicks are fed by both parents and fledge from the nest after around 55-60 days.

Habitat

Grey Herons are found in a variety of wetland habitats, including marshes, rivers, lakes, and estuaries.

They prefer habitats with shallow water, where they can wade and catch fish.

They are also commonly seen in urban areas, such as parks and gardens with ponds and lakes.

 

Food

Grey Herons are primarily piscivorous, feeding on fish, frogs, and other aquatic animals.

They use their sharp bills to catch their prey, either by wading in shallow water or standing on rocks and logs.

They also feed on small mammals, such as voles and mice, as well as insects and crustaceans.

If you have seen a Grey Heron, please let us know via our survey page.