Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias)

I hadn't ever seen a Great Blue Heron until just a few years ago. We were driving along a country road nearby and all of a sudden a huge, winged creature arose out of a small pond area! It was so unexpected and unfamiliar that I was in awe; totally amazed and fascinated to think that such a large bird could be found in our area. I had never seen a heron during all my years of growing up along our river but in recent years they have now become frequent and familiar sightings.

I think they are magnificant birds! With a wing span of about 70" (more, or less), I never fail to be fascinated when I see one of these huge creatures take off in flight.