I photographed this Great Blue Heron at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma, just after duck hunting season ended. With fewer disturbances, I’m hoping these birds will be easier to approach and photograph. During hunting season, they are incredibly wary, often flying off before I can get close.
This heron had just plucked a small minnow from the water, gripping it tightly in its long, dagger-like beak. The scene captures the precision and patience that make these birds such skilled hunters. They stand motionless for long periods, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Once they spot movement, they spear their prey with incredible speed.
Why Great Blue Herons Are Hard to Photograph
Great Blue Herons may be common in wetlands across North America, but that doesn’t make them easy to photograph. They are incredibly cautious, especially in areas where hunting occurs. Even when I’m at a safe distance, they often seem to sense my presence and take flight before I can get a shot.
At Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge, this behavior is even more pronounced during hunting season. The sound of gunfire keeps these birds on edge. They associate human activity with danger, making them more skittish and harder to approach. Now that hunting season has ended, I’m hoping they’ll settle down and allow for better photography opportunities.
The Hunting Strategy of a Great Blue Heron
Herons are expert fishers, relying on stealth and patience. They wade through shallow water, carefully watching for movement. When they strike, it’s quick and precise. Their sharp beak stabs or grabs their prey, which they swallow whole.
Minnows, like the one in this photo, are easy prey, but herons are capable of catching larger fish, frogs, and even small mammals. I’ve seen them struggle to swallow oversized meals, but they always seem to manage.
Tips for Photographing Great Blue Herons
If you want to capture moments like this, here are a few tips:
- Move slowly and stay low – Quick movements will scare them off.
- Use natural cover – Trees, grass, or even your vehicle can help hide your presence.
- Be patient – These birds will eventually get comfortable if you don’t pressure them.
- Shoot in good light – Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting.
- Use a long lens – I used my Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS USM for this shot, which allowed me to keep my distance.
Final Thoughts
I’m looking forward to photographing more Great Blue Herons now that the refuge is quieter. Their hunting behavior is always fascinating to watch, and moments like this—catching a heron mid-meal—make the effort worthwhile.
Have you noticed a change in wildlife behavior after hunting season in your area? Let me know in the comments!