Description:
One of the smaller heron species, green herons grow to approximately 20 inches in length, with a wingspan of 26 inches.  There is a greenish-black crown on top of the head, with the neck and sides chestnut brown.  The back is a blue-gray tone, and the ventral surface and underside of the neck is a mottled, or streaked white and brown color.  The legs are yellowish in color, especially during the breeding season. 

Habitat:
Green herons are typically found in small freshwater lakes and streams that are tree-lined or otherwise sheltered with tall vegetation or shrubs.  They also utilize estuaries for feeding.

Similar Species:
Green herons are similar in size and overall appearance to the little blue heron (Egretta caerulea).  However, little blue herons are larger and have longer necks.  Further, little blue herons are a steel-blue color overall, unlike the green heron, whose color varies in different areas of the body. 

Range:
Green herons live year-round in Florida and along the coast of the western United States.  Their breeding range extends from the east coast of the U.S. to the Mississippi River area.