great blue heron

Tag

By Fluttering

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.

By 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.

By Great Blue Heron Dexterity

Jordan Lake Dam. This great blue heron deftly moved the fish he had speared, flipped it into the air and caught it again so that he could swallow it head first. Note the two long white-tipped black plumes on the heron’s head … these plumes elongate during breeding season … this adult is ready to find a mate.

By 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!

By Clean Feathers are Best

Jordan Lake. The great blue heron has special feathers on its chest. These feathers grow continuously and they fray and almost make a powder as they grow out. The heron grabs a bit of these white powder feathers and uses them as a washcloth to remove dirt and oil from its feathers.