Great Blue Heron Hunting

The first bird that I was excited to photograph was the Great Blue Heron. The size and the dinosaur appearance were unmistakable. I found them to be very interesting to observe, and have spent a great deal of time watching them.
As per All About Birds, they are the largest of the North American herons with long legs, a sinuous neck, and thick dagger like bill. Head, chest, and wing plumes give a shaggy appearance. In flight, the Great Blue Heron curls it’s neck into a tight “S” shape; it’s wings are broad and rounded and it’s legs trail well beyond the tail.
Hunting Great Blue Herons wade slowly or stand statue-like, stalking fish and other prey in shallow water or open fields. Watch for the lightning-fast thrust of the neck and head as they stab with their strong bills.
They are found in saltwater and freshwater habitats, from open coasts, marshes, sloughs, riverbanks, and lakes to backyard goldfish ponds. They also forage in grasslands and agricultural fields.Recently, I photographed this Great Blue Heron hunting on the Ottawa River. There are no shortage of Great Blue Herons around with rookeries located in the area.I had just purchased my new Canon R5 mirrorless camera, and was anxious to try it out. We made our way to Mud Lake on the West side of Ottawa, and it didn’t disappoint.My series of photos display him hunting from the dive, to the actual swallowing of a huge smallmouth Bass. I hope you enjoy the photos!Lisa Payette