I photographed this Green Heron at Minor’s Cove, which is at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma.
The Green Heron (Butorides virescens) is a small water bird species native to North and Central America. They are typically found near wetlands, rivers, and lakes, and feed on small fish, insects, and other aquatic creatures. They are recognizable by their green and blue plumage, long neck, and short bill. Green Herons are relatively common and are not considered to be threatened or endangered.
Green Heron
- Green Herons are small wading birds, typically growing to around 8-13 inches in length and weighing between 3-9 ounces.
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They are known for their green plumage, which gives them their name, as well as their distinctive long neck and red-brown legs.
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Green Herons are opportunistic feeders, and will eat a wide variety of prey, including fish, insects, crustaceans, and amphibians. They are known for their unique feeding behavior, in which they will drop bait such as breadcrumbs, feathers, or insects onto the water to attract fish.
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Green Herons are solitary birds and are typically seen alone, although they may form small colonies during the breeding season. They build their nests in trees or shrubs near water and lay 3-5 eggs per clutch.
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These birds are migratory and will travel to Central America or the southern United States for the winter. In the summer, they can be found in wetlands, rivers, lakes, and marshes throughout North America, including Oklahoma.
Gear Used:
- Camera:Â Canon EOS R7
- Lens: RF100-500Â mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
Technical:
- Location: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma)
- Date and Time Taken: August 6, 2022 (07:01 A. M.)
- Exposure Mode: Manual
- Aperture: f7.1
- Shutter speed: 1/500
- ISO: 6400 (Auto)
- Focal Length: 500 mm