Photographing Green Herons on our Louisiana Photo Tours
We often photograph Green Herons on our Louisiana Photo Tours. Previously, I believed the name of the Green Heron was "Little Green Heron." Later, I was told it had been changed to "Green-backed Heron."
Both of the names are incorrect. While it is true that the name changed, prior to 2001, the Green Heron (Butorides virescens) and the Striated Heron (Butorides striata) were both classified under the broader name "Green-backed Heron." In 2001, they were reclassified as two separate species. The Green Heron is found primarily in North and Central America, while the Striated Heron is native to parts of Africa, Asia, and South America.
Distinctive Behaviors of the Green Heron
The Green Heron exhibits several unique and fascinating behaviors:
Tool Use for Hunting One of the few bird species known to use tools, the Green Heron will drop insects or other small objects onto the water’s surface to bait fish. This remarkable behavior demonstrates their intelligence and adaptability.
Stealthy Hunting Techniques While fishing or hunting, Green Herons remain motionless for extended periods with their necks extended, waiting for prey to come within range. They then strike quickly and precisely to capture their meal.
Diet Versatility Although their primary diet consists of fish, Green Herons also eat insects, frogs, crustaceans, and occasionally small mammals.
Photographing Green Herons on Our Tours
On our photo tours, we frequently find Green Herons near the edges of lakes, often in areas with dense underbrush where they hunt and feed. We have been fortunate to photograph them with fish in their beaks, as well as with dragonflies and other prey.
These shy and elusive birds provide excellent opportunities for photographers to capture their unique behaviors and natural beauty.
