Green Heron

Butorides virescens

Appearance:
Small, stocky wading bird
Long neck and legs but shorter than most herons
Dark crown
Long, sharply pointed bill

Adult: (not photographed)

   Glossy, greenish-black cap

   Chestnut neck with white line down front

   Greenish back and wings

   Gray underparts

   Yellow legs

   Dark bill

Juvenile:
   Duller than adult
   Neck and underparts streaked brown and white
   Brown back and wings with buff spotting
   Greenish-yellow legs and bill
   Yellow markings around eye, extend to the bridge of the bill

Listen to its call.

Taking advantage of another gorgeous fall day, I took a walk around Swan Lake this afternoon. This young heron, spotted near the dock on the east side of the lake, was enjoying some time in the sun as well. With its streaked neck, I initially mistook it for an American Bittern. However, even at a distance, its dark crown stood out, distinguishing it from the larger bird. 

Learn more about the Green Heron.