Green Heron
Butorides virescens · Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns
The Green Heron is a small, stocky heron found in wetlands across North and Central America. Often solitary and somewhat secretive, it can be identified by its hunched posture at the water's edge and its distinctive coloration. This species is known for its patient hunting technique and occasional use of tools to attract prey.
Explore the full field guideMigratorySmall sizeSharp callPiscivorous
3 calls·first heard Jul 1·last 93d ago
When it's heardpeak 5a · fall
5a12p9p
How to know it
- Adults have a glossy, greenish-black cap and back, with rich chestnut on the neck and breast, and yellow legs.
- Juveniles are duller and browner than adults, with streaked brown and white on the head, neck, and underparts, and greenish-yellow legs.
- Compared to other herons, they are short and stocky with relatively short legs and a thick neck often drawn in.
- The dark crown feathers are often raised into a short, bushy crest.