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About the Purple Heron
The purple heron is a large, slender wading bird associated with freshwater wetlands, reedbeds, marshes, rivers and lakes. It has a long neck, long legs and distinctive dark grey, purple-brown and chestnut plumage that provides excellent camouflage among reeds. It usually hunts alone, standing motionless or moving slowly through shallow water before striking fish, frogs, reptiles, insects and other small prey with its long pointed bill.
How to identify the Purple Heron
Large, slender heron with a long S-shaped neck, long pointed bill and long legs. Adults have a distinctive purple-brown neck and head, reddish-brown body and darker grey wings. Often appears slimmer and more elongated than the Grey Heron.
Did you know?
Purple Herons often hunt from dense reed beds and use their elongated neck and body to remain concealed while striking at prey.
Also known as: Heron, Roireier
Parks where you can see the Purple Heron
Recent Purple Heron sightings
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