Great Blue Heron

Ardea herodias

The regal figure of the Great Blue Heron is a common sight in the lagoon. It wades slowly through the shallows on its long legs or waits motionless for something tasty to swim by. When it strikes, the specialized bones in its long neck create a coil, giving it spring-loaded speed. With a 6-foot wingspan, the Great Blue Heron is the largest North American heron.

Fun Fact:
A gopher or large fish can take minutes to make its way down a Great Blue Heron's long throat.

What’s for Lunch:
Fish, crabs or rodents

Where’s Home:
San Elijo Lagoon, year-round; nests in trees near the wetlands