California wildlife
Great Blue Heron
Ardea herodias
Tall wading bird often seen motionless in tidal marshes.
See the Great Blue Heron up close
Best months
Dec · Jan · Feb
Visit tidal marshes at low tide for best viewing; check the official report for recent sightings.
Where to look
Point Reyes National Seashore tidal marshBolsa Chica Ecological ReserveSacramento National Wildlife Refuge
Conservation status
Common year-round resident in California wetlands
Good to know
What time of day are Great Blue Herons most active?
Early morning and late afternoon are prime feeding times.
How can I identify a Great Blue Heron?
Look for its tall, gray-blue body, long neck, and dagger-like yellow bill.
Make it a trip
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