Description:
The great blue heron is perhaps the most well known and widespread heron species in United States.  The largest of the North American herons, it grows to a height of 38 inches, with a wingspan of 70 inches.  The sexes are similar, with overall body color a dull blue-gray. It has a thick yellow bill, black shoulders.  The legs generally match the body color, but can range toward yellowish or orange.  A major identifying trait is the white face that has a black streak extending from behind the eye to the back of the head.

Habitat:
Great blue herons are found in many wetland habitats including mangroves, along coastlines, rivers, and lakes. As large wading birds, great blue herons are able to feed in deeper waters, and thus are able to exploit parts of a habitat not accessible to most other heron species.

Range:  
occurs throughout most of North America, including Alaska, Quebec and Nova Scotia. The range extends south through Florida, Mexico and the Caribbean to South America, including the Galapagos Islands.