Washington wildlife
Great Blue Heron
Ardea herodias
Largest heron in North America, hunts in shallow waters.
See the Great Blue Heron up close
Best months
Jun · Jul · Aug
Early morning or late evening near shorelines for best viewing; check the official park or refuge report for current activity.
Where to look
Puget Sound eelgrass bedsNisqually National Wildlife RefugePadilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
Conservation status
Stable resident, common in lowlands
Good to know
Where do Great Blue Herons nest in Washington?
They nest in colonies (rookeries) in tall trees near water, such as at the Heron Reserve in Seattle.
Are Great Blue Herons common in summer?
Yes, they are common residents and are especially active feeding in shallow eelgrass beds of Puget Sound.
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