Tuesday, May 29, 2007

Great Blue Heron

I spent yesterday morning photographing two Great Blue Herons wading along the Olentangy River. Herons are common now but they are fascinating birds. Depending on the angle you view them, they either look like a ferocious hunter or a dopey muppet. Here is a heron in its warrior pose.

 
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And, here, I present the same exact bird looking mightily like a muppet.



This wasn't the only heron on the river that day. A young heron, very different in coloration and feather patterns, was also present. Instead of wading, this individual sat in the river, extended its neck up and down a few times, but didn't do much else. Notice the lack of contrasting light and dark feathers, especially on the head. It also lacks the backward directed plume of the adult. Overall, this young heron has a more "fluffy" look to it.

2 comments:

  1. Your post reminded me of the heron that lived in Franklin Park last spring. She had a baby too. I was amazed such a big bird could roost in a relatively small, urban, and completely man-made waterway. Haven't seen them this year, though.

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  2. Darla,

    Yes, it is amazing how adaptable these birds have become! Great Blue Herons are even considered pests in some urban areas because they frequent backyard fish ponds, plucking out very expensive goldfish and koi. Anyways, I love living in Columbus and It is good to know that we can see thousands of fascinating plants and animals right here in the City.

    Tom

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