Want to know where and when to find Grey Heron? opspoor shows recent sightings across South Africa's parks and when each species is usually active.
Where to see Grey Heron in South Africa
About the Grey Heron
The grey heron is a large, widespread wading bird found around freshwater and coastal wetlands, rivers, lakes, dams and estuaries. It has a long neck, long legs, a powerful pointed bill and predominantly grey, white and black plumage. It usually hunts alone by standing motionless in shallow water before striking prey with its bill. Fish form a major part of its diet, supplemented by frogs, reptiles, small mammals, birds and aquatic invertebrates.
How to identify the Grey Heron
Large, long-legged grey heron with a long S-shaped neck, long pointed bill and broad wings. Adults have a grey back, pale grey underparts, white head and neck, and a distinctive black stripe extending from the eye to the crest.
Did you know?
Grey Herons can swallow surprisingly large prey whole, including fish and small mammals, despite their relatively slender appearance.
Also known as: Bloureier, Gray Heron, Heron
Planning a safari? Pick a park above to see when and where to look for Grey Heron, and log your own sightings in opspoor, even with no signal.