You are walking along a narrow strip of land between a calm pond and expansive river. As the serenity of the view cradles your mind, there is an interruption.  A huge bird makes a harsh, loud croaking-squawking as it lands on its nest. The disturbing call is met with its mate and similar noises from the chicks demanding for food to be regurgitated to them. 

This is not Jurassic Park. This is York River State Park.

Herons nest along Woodstock Pond

Pre-historic Pteradactyls?

The great blue heron may remind some guests of a pre-historic Pteradactyls with their impressive height (4 feet) and wingspan (6 feet). Despite their unappealing call, these are some of the most graceful birds in flight and as they wade along the water to stalk their prey. Their blue and bluish-grey plumage makes this bird a colorful icon of our waterways. When breeding, they can create breeding colonies of up to 200 nest. For most birds, this is called a rookery. But a colony of herons is called a “herony” (no, we didn’t make that word up). 

Birding is fun for all ages

Join us For a Heronious Point Of View

Most people walk past one at the park enroute to and from Fossil Beach. We would like for you to stop and join us to take in a "Heronious Point of View." At a small point on Woodstock Pond, we have a herony of 8 to 12 nest in a tall loblolly pine tree. 

A spotting scope and a few binoculars will be available along with guide books. Bring your camera with a good zoom lens to capture some images. There is no need to sign up for take advantage of this “heronious” point of view. Just stop by the display table as you enjoy your day at the park. Don’t forget to visit the gift shop where we have unique items relating to the great blue heron.

A graceful icon of the York River

Directions to York River State Park: From I-64, take the Croaker Exit 231B. Go north on Route 607 (Croaker Rd.) for one mile, then right on Route 606 (Riverview Rd.) about one and a half miles to the park entrance. Take a left turn into the park.

Click here to learn more about recreational opportunities at York River State Park, and here to find more upcoming fun programs and events.