Great Blue Heron

The Great Blue Heron is one of the largest of the North American herons and egrets, standing four feet tall and with a wingspan of six feet.  It ranges from Alaska to Nova Scotia and southward across the continent to Mexico and the West Indies.  In Texas, the Great Blue Heron is most common along the coast, but it can also be seen beside streams, ponds and lakes throughout the state.  Herons are wading birds and their long legs, neck and bill are perfect for stalking food in shallow water.  They primarily feed on fish, but also eat insects, turtles, frogs, snakes and rodents.  Unlike the Night Heron, the great blue uses his bill to stab or grab his prey.