Grey Heron

Characteristics

It is the largest heron that breeds in Japan and is gray in color. When it becomes an adult bird, it will have crest feathers. The individual in the photo is a young bird and the black band on the back of the head is still thin. The beak is still gray. The beak turns yellow as it matures. From evening to dawn, they call "Gua" and "Guan". It is also characteristic that its long neck is folded into an S shape when flying.

Ecology

Inhabits watersides and forages in shallow waters until evening. Eats fish, amphibians and reptiles. It pinches and pokes with its sharp beak. It builds a dish-shaped nest with branches on a tall tree. It is not uncommon for them to be far away from their feeding grounds.

When the weather is nice, he sits on a stone by the river and basks in the sun.

Habitat

I found him eating small fish along the Asakawa River. A great egret stood alone, some distance away from a flock. If you get close to about 15m, they will be cautious and run away. The individual in the photo remembers my face and is quite cautious. Sometimes I keep quiet under a busy bridge.

Videos

The video of a Gray heron.