Birds · Pelecaniformes

Herons

Ardeidae (family)

Varies by Species

Herons are freshwater and coastal wading birds in the Ardeidae family — a term that also includes the bittern and the egret. There are more than 60 species considered herons.

Read the Heron overview →Species around the world →

Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Aves

Order: Pelecaniformes

Family: Ardeidae

Other names: Egret, Great White Egret, Great Blue Heron, Bitterns, Shitepokes

Size

Wingspan 60–77 in.; height 34–55 in.; weigh 3.3–6.6 lbs. The smallest is the Little Bittern (12 in. tall); the largest is the Goliath Heron (up to 60 in. tall).

Habitat

Found on all continents except Antarctica, most commonly in the tropics. Nest in rough stick platforms in bushes or trees near water. Non-swimming waterbirds that feed at the margins of lakes, rivers, swamps, ponds and the sea.

Description

Broad wings with long, straight, pointed bills. Long legs and long necks; resemble an "S" curve shape when standing.

Diet

Carnivores that wade in waterways and feed on frogs, fish and other aquatic animals.

Life Span

Up to 25 years.

Birth

Typically lay 3 to 7 eggs, which hatch after about a month.

Social Structure

Most species are monogamous and mostly found in colonies.

Did You Know?

Herons have very few natural predators. Foxes, raccoons, minks and weasels are their most common predators, preying on young herons or the heron's eggs.