Nature's Fisherman
By Carol Mundy, Naturalist

The great blue heron is a type of wading bird often found in wetland areas around Hamilton County. This bird is considered to be the "ambassador of the wetland" because its presence indicates that the area is a healthy habitat for a variety of wildlife. Great blues can be spotted year round at some of the Hamilton County Park District lakes, especially Winton Woods and Miami Whitewater Forest.

The great blue heron is an excellent angler. Its success can be attributed to its patience. It does not seek out its meal, but rather, waits for the fish to come to it. The heron spears the fish with its powerful beak, pulls it from the water, the readjusts the fish and swallows it whole, headfirst. Great blue herons can take fish up to a foot in length.

Although fish seem to be its favorite meal, a nearby frog, snake, crayfish or mouse also make tasty morsels for this tall bird.

At one time, the fish industry believed that herons were "eating the profits" and these beautiful birds became the target of wanton slaughter. Further investigation revealed that they were eating primarily "junk" fish, those of little or no economic value. The great blue was also eating snakes and other creatures that threaten young game fish. Protected wetlands, such as the Shaker Trace Wetlands in Miami Whitewater Forest, now provide a safe haven for great blue herons.

The appearance of this bird is quite unique. It sports a blue-gray plumage, with a black capped head. It has a few long plumes extending back, beyond the head. Standing about four feet tall, its long curved neck and heavy pointed beak lend it the look of a prehistoric creature. Its long, stilt-like legs give the bird an ungainly appearance. However, once it lifts into flight, that image quickly vanishes. With a wingspan of nearly six feet, providing slow and deliberate beats, the great blue is a graceful flyer.

The first time you see a great blue heron makes for a memorable moment. This bird will stand perfectly still, surveying the water, providing an unbelievable sight compared to the songbirds hiding in the surrounding tree canopies. To catch a glimpse of the great blue heron, visit a river's shallow edge, lake or wide creek in the early morning hours or late afternoon. Don't forget your binoculars so you can study the unique features of nature's fisherman.