Great Blue Heron are seen as graceful waterside stalkers hunting for food.  They are also admired for their large wingspan as they fly and soar.  The nesting and breeding habits of herons are also interesting to watch as well.

Heron nests are not hard to find.  Look in the tops of tall pine trees along the shoreline.  The nest will be large and bulky.  Expect to find more than one in the same or in nearby trees.  A heron rookery (also called herony) can have anywhere from 5 to 500 nests.  Loud croaking noises can be heard from the tree tops as they mate.  A heron will lay between three to six eggs and they take about a month to hatch.  Parents take turns in feeding the young birds. 

When viewing nesting herons, take care to keep your distance as they can be easily spooked.  Be sure to bring binoculars, spotting scopes, and telephoto camera lenses to see all of the action this blue breeding season.  A small herony can be found at York River State Park on Woodstock Pond across from the fishing platforms and paddle boat pier.