Prehistoric monsters?

No one has seen tetradactyls jockeying for nesting positions, incubating eggs or feeding their young until the fledge. But you can see something similar at York River State Park on Woodstock Pond. It’s called a “heronry,” a nesting colony of great blue heron.

Location, location, location

These tallest of the wading birds return to the same tree between late February and early March to build and rebuild their nest. Over time, other herons have joined the heronry and expanded to other nearby trees. The nesting is done away from humans and near a good supply of food. The York River is on the other side of the pond giving the birds plenty of feeding options.

Nesting notes

Great blue heron lay between two to six eggs in March. The chicks hatch about a month later. Between May and July there is a constant show of adult birds flying in and out of the heronry to feed their noisy youngsters. The croaks and groans of herons is like things heard in a Jurassic Park movie. Yet, this is a very elegant bird as it stalks prey and glides in the air. 

The park & programs

Guests can admire the heronry on their own, or with one of our interpreters. A Roaming Ranger is usually around the pond Mondays and Fridays at 11 a.m. to noon. We also have Dabble in Discovery most Saturdays from 1 to 3 p.m. with someone giving a “Heronious” Point of View. 

Where to look

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or someone wondering about the strange noises near the pond, watching great blue herons is fun for all park guests. They are easy to find in the heronry tending to the chicks. But look for them at low tide along the shoreline. The blue shaded stalkers have a white plumed underside that hides them from small fish and crabs they prey on. They can also be found in the branches of the pines behind the Visitor Center. Because of their size, binoculars aren’t necessary to see this beautiful bird.