The great blue heron is a large wading bird known for its striking appearance and graceful movements. With a wingspan of up to six feet, it has long legs, a slender neck, and a sharp beak, making it an expert fisherman. These birds are often found near wetlands, lakes, and rivers, where they hunt for fish, frogs, and other small aquatic creatures. Great blue herons are typically grayish-blue in color, with a distinctive black stripe running from their eyes to the back of their heads. They are solitary birds, but during breeding season, they gather in colonies called heronries. Their nests are usually built high in trees, providing safety for their young from predators.