The Elusive Green Heron

This is a Green Heron

Hubby took this picture of him one morning creeping along the lake bank.  The name is deceiving as the green is not to be seen except a tiny bit when sun is hitting the rich blueish colors on the back of his head.  These birds are very shy and flee when seeing humans with their cameras.  This species is a small heron that dines on fish in freshwater lakes and salt water.  He is very stealthy as he stays low to the ground and looks for his prey in the water. 

   Then another day, my daughter was able to snap these great pictures while her Dad was napping.  I think they are beautiful!  Green Herons are 14 inches long and their wingspan is 25 inches.

They have a crested head but I have never observed one with the crest raised.

His leg coloring is bright yellow

The lake level is very low from lack of rainfall and he is enjoying the bank where he can walk close to the water's edge.

I love this one as he has spied something!

See how closely he blends in with the mud, twigs, new grass growth on what is normally under water.

The Green Heron is truly a beautiful creature!  I feel so fortunate that we are able to see these wonderful birds up close and personal. 

  Yesterday, there were 4 Whooping Cranes right at the edge of the yard along the lake.  By the time we discovered them and got the camera, they all took flight!  So beautiful!  Maybe we can catch them next time.  Thank you so much for coming by to share our wildlife and do come again soon.