Great Blue Heron
Ardea herodias

Picture property of Fernbank Science Center ©  Conditions of Use 		Field Marks
  • White crown and face
  • Black plume extending from above and behind eye to beyond back of head
  • Brownish-buff neck with black-bordered white stripe down center of neck
  • Blue-gray back, wings and belly
  • Black shoulder

Habitat

The great blue heron's habitats include rivers, lake edges, marshes, saltwater shores, and swamps. The bird usually nests in trees near water.

Status

Uncommon in Atlanta, but can be seen fishing near water sources