Jordan Lake. One way great blue herons, in the excessive heat, cool off is by “fluttering”. They use a combination of mouth breathing while vibrating their moist throat membranes. This results in evaporation and cooling.
herons
CategoryTwo Colorful Water Birds
Jordan Lake. Foraging together along the shoreline of the lake was a striking pair of birds. One was a very brilliantly white great egret and the other was a very colorful male mallard. The great egret was the first one Captain Doug and I had seen this season.

Great Blue Heron and American Water Willows
Jordan Lake. Great blue herons really enjoy standing still within a garden of American water willows. Fish love to get in around the stems of the American water willow which of course means it’s a good place for a great blue heron to look for food. The American water willow’s blossom reminds me somewhat of a tiny iris. You can find them at some of the boat ramps on Jordan Lake these days. Go and enjoy this native plant.


Doc Ellen’s New Gallery
I have opened a new gallery …
http://www.docellensnaturephotography.com

Jack-in-the-Box
Jordan Lake. Jack-in-the-box … Just how tall can a great blue heron stretch its neck? This morning at the lake I had to laugh and laugh. I hope you too find some laughter in the great blue heron’s antics!
Doc Ellen’s Natural Minute 2023/07/24
Jordan Lake Dam. Herons will sometimes drop one or both wings and stand as if in contemplation. I have seen many different species of birds, such as the bald eagle, display the same behavior.
