Ardeidae (Herons

The Great Blue Heron is a large wading bird found throughout North America, from Canada to Mexico, and is commonly seen in freshwater wetlands, swamps, and coastal habitats. During breeding season, they form colonies called rookeries where pairs build stick nests in trees or shrubs near water. Both parents participate in nest construction and incubation, gathering branches and other materials over several weeks. Great Blue Herons nest primarily in spring and early summer, and their breeding colonies can persist for decades in suitable locations across temperate and subtropical regions.