The heron is normally a shy bird by the river, lake or sea shore, only occasionally foraging elsewhere for fish in garden ponds. The Pleasaunce has been privileged to have one visible at close quarters in recent months, enjoying tasty snacks from the Moat.
It can stand with neck stretched out, looking for food, or hunch down with its neck bent over its chest. In flight it holds its neck retracted and has large rounded wings. It is usually solitary although several birds may feed fairly close together.
It stalks its food, often standing motionless for some considerable time. It usually feeds close to the bank or shore, but may wade out into shallow water.
The birds breed in colonies in tall trees near to plentiful fish supplies. Woodland close to inland lakes, gravel pits and marshes,
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