heron

Heron is a common name for birds in the family Ardeidae, a group of long-legged wading birds found in wetlands and along coasts worldwide. They range from small species such as the green heron to large forms like the great blue heron. The family includes the bitterns; they are typically camouflaged and more secretive.

Herons are characterized by elongated bodies, long necks, sharp spear-like bills, and long legs. They typically fly with their necks retracted in a S-shaped curve. They hunt by patience and stealth, standing still or slowly stalking fish and other aquatic prey, then striking quickly.

They occupy a broad range of aquatic habitats, including rivers, lakes, marshes, mangroves, and coastal shallows. They occur on every continent except Antarctica, with the greatest diversity in the tropics and subtropics.

Diet is mainly fish, but can include amphibians, crustaceans, insects, small mammals, and occasionally birds. Some species are nocturnal or crepuscular.

Nesting is usually in trees, shrubs, or reedbeds near water. Most species lay 2–6 eggs; both parents incubate and brood. Chicks fledge after several weeks and may disperse widely afterward. Many species are quiet, but breeding plumage and vocalizations occur during courtship.

Conservation status varies; habitat loss and disturbance affect many populations. Notable species include the great blue heron (Ardea herodias), grey heron (Ardea cinerea), purple heron (Ardea purpurea), and black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax nycticorax).