Herons can be recognised by their statue-like outline on the edges of lakes, ponds and coastal waters. They are tall, large wading birds with a grey back, white long neck, long legs, bright yellow bill and a black eye stripe that continues as feathers drooping down their neck.

The heron is also easily spotted when it is in flight due to their slow-flapping wings and distinct posture with their legs stretched out and neck tucked in.

Herons are often seen stood on their long thin legs in shallow waters of ponds, lakes and coastal waters patiently waiting for their next meal to swim by. They spend most of their time alone feeding mainly on fish but can be tempted by the occasional small animal such as moles and mice.

Herons nest in colonies called ‘Heronries’, where they build large nests at the top of trees and lay 3-4 eggs. The young will fledge from the nest after about one and half months.