Herons are some of the most elegant and fascinating birds you can find in Wisconsin. Whether wading through marshes, standing still in the shallows, or soaring gracefully over lakes, these birds are a striking sight. With their long legs, sharp beaks, and patient hunting techniques, herons are well-adapted to life in wetland habitats.
Wisconsin is home to several heron species, ranging from the towering Great Blue Heron to the smaller, more elusive Green Heron. Some species, like the Black-crowned Night-Heron, are more active after dark, while others, like the Great Egret, are easy to spot during the day.
Many of these birds migrate south for the winter, but during the warmer months, they can be found nesting and feeding in the state’s lakes, rivers, and wetlands. In this article, I’ll introduce you to the herons of Wisconsin, where to find them, and what makes each one unique.
1. Green Heron
- Scientific name: Butorides virescens
- Life span: 7 years
- Size: 38-50 cm (15-20 in)
- Weight: 0.1-0.2 kg (0.2-0.5 lbs)
- Wingspan: 58-66 cm (23-26 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
- Migratory behaviour: Leaves in October.
The Green Heron, though more elusive, is widespread across North and Central America, frequenting wetlands, marshes, and forested streams. This small heron boasts a rich, greenish-black cap atop its head, with a deep chestnut neck and chest that provide a vivid contrast. Its back and wings shimmer with hues of green and blue, lending it a jewel-like quality.
Unlike its larger relatives, the Green Heron often remains concealed within dense vegetation, making its presence known through sudden, sharp calls or brief flights. Its compact stature and striking coloration make it a unique and memorable sight for those fortunate enough to observe it.
Green Herons in Wisconsin prefer secluded nesting sites, often choosing dense vegetation near water bodies. They construct their nests in shrubs or low trees, using twigs and lining them with finer materials. Unlike some heron species, Green Herons may nest solitarily or in loose colonies, displaying flexibility in their breeding behavior.
Their diet mainly consists of small fish, insects, and crustaceans. Green Herons are known for their unique hunting technique, sometimes using bait such as insects or feathers to lure fish within striking distance—a testament to their remarkable intelligence and adaptability.
While not currently considered threatened, Green Herons benefit from conservation practices that protect wetland habitats. Maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems and minimizing pollution are crucial for supporting their foraging and nesting requirements in the state.
2. Great Blue Heron
- Scientific name: Ardea herodias
- Life span: 15 years
- Size: 91-137 cm (36-54 in)
- Weight: 2-3.6 kg (4.4-7.9 lbs)
- Wingspan: 167-201 cm (66-79 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
- Migratory behaviour: Departs by early November.
The Great Blue Heron is a prominent wading bird found throughout North America, from the shores of Alaska down to the Caribbean and even into parts of Central America. Sporting a striking blue-gray plumage, this heron is easily recognized by its long legs and sinuous neck, which often curls into an elegant “S” shape.
A distinctive black stripe runs above its eye, extending into graceful plumes that add to its majestic appearance. In flight, the Great Blue Heron presents a commanding presence, with slow, deliberate wingbeats and its neck tucked in, contrasting with its extended legs trailing behind. This combination of features makes it a captivating sight across various wetland habitats.
In Wisconsin, Great Blue Herons establish large nesting colonies, known as rookeries, typically situated in tall trees near wetlands. These communal sites can house numerous nests, each constructed from sticks and lined with softer materials. The herons exhibit a strong fidelity to these nesting areas, often returning year after year, which underscores the importance of preserving these critical habitats.
Their diet is diverse, primarily consisting of fish, but also including amphibians, reptiles, small mammals, and even other birds. Great Blue Herons are patient hunters, standing motionless or wading slowly in shallow waters to ambush unsuspecting prey with a swift thrust of their sharp bills. This opportunistic feeding strategy allows them to thrive in various aquatic environments.
Historically, Great Blue Heron populations faced challenges due to habitat destruction and human disturbances. However, conservation efforts, including wetland protection and legal safeguards under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, have contributed to their recovery. Continued monitoring and habitat preservation remain essential to ensure the stability of their populations in Wisconsin.
3. American Bittern
- Scientific name: Botaurus lentiginosus
- Life span: 6 years
- Size: 58-81 cm (23-32 in)
- Weight: 0.4-1 kg (0.9-2.2 lbs)
- Wingspan: 91-104 cm (36-41 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and uncommon
- Migratory behaviour: Departs by late October.
The American Bittern is a secretive inhabitant of North America’s marshes and wetlands. Its streaky brown and buff plumage provides exceptional camouflage among the reeds and cattails, allowing it to blend seamlessly into its surroundings. When threatened, this bird employs a unique “freeze” posture, pointing its bill skyward and remaining motionless, further enhancing its invisibility.
Its relatively short legs and stout body, combined with a slightly hunched posture, give it a distinctive silhouette. Often heard more than seen, the American Bittern’s resonant, gulping calls echo through its wetland habitats, adding an auditory clue to its elusive presence.
American Bitterns are elusive inhabitants of Wisconsin’s wetlands, preferring dense emergent vegetation such as cattails and sedges for nesting. They construct well-hidden nests slightly above the water level, using reeds and grasses to form a sturdy platform. This secretive nesting behavior provides protection from predators and human disturbances.
Their diet is diverse, including fish, amphibians, insects, and small mammals. American Bitterns employ a stealthy hunting approach, remaining motionless among the reeds before striking swiftly at unsuspecting prey. This methodical feeding strategy aligns with their solitary nature and reliance on camouflage.
The American Bittern is considered a species of concern in Wisconsin due to wetland degradation and loss. Conservation efforts focus on preserving and restoring large, contiguous wetland habitats to support their breeding and foraging needs. Monitoring programs aim to track population trends and inform management strategies to ensure the species’ continued presence in the state.
4. Great Egret
- Scientific name: Ardea alba
- Life span: 15 years
- Size: 81-101 cm (32-40 in)
- Weight: 0.7-1.4 kg (1.5-3.1 lbs)
- Wingspan: 140-170 cm (55-67 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
- Migratory behaviour: Leaves between late July and mid-November.
The Great Egret is a symbol of grace and elegance, found across much of the world, including the Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. This tall, slender bird is adorned with all-white plumage that gleams in the sunlight. Its long, black legs and feet provide a striking contrast to its bright yellow bill, which is sharp and pointed, ideal for spearing fish.
During the breeding season, delicate, wispy plumes emerge from its back, adding to its ethereal beauty. Often seen standing motionless in shallow waters or slowly wading, the Great Egret embodies tranquility and poise in its natural habitat.
Great Egrets in Wisconsin establish nesting colonies, often in mixed-species rookeries located in trees or shrubs near water bodies. They build platform nests from sticks, lined with softer materials, and exhibit site fidelity, returning to traditional nesting areas annually. These colonies can be sensitive to disturbances, highlighting the need for protective measures during the breeding season.
Their diet primarily consists of fish, but they also consume amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates. Great Egrets hunt by wading through shallow waters, using their sharp bills to spear prey with precision. This feeding behavior requires intact wetland habitats to support their foraging activities.
Once threatened by plume hunting and habitat loss, Great Egrets have rebounded due to legal protections and wetland conservation initiatives. Ongoing efforts to preserve and restore wetland ecosystems are crucial to maintain their populations in Wisconsin.
5. Cattle Egret
- Scientific name: Bubulcus ibis
- Life span: 9 years
- Size: 46-56 cm (18-22 in)
- Weight: 0.2-0.5 kg (0.5-1.1 lbs)
- Wingspan: 88-96 cm (35-38 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
- Migratory behaviour: Departs by late October.
The Cattle Egret, originally native to parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe, has expanded its range dramatically and is now found across the Americas and other regions. This adaptable bird is often seen in fields and pastures, frequently in close association with grazing livestock. Sporting all-white plumage, the Cattle Egret is distinguished by its sturdy build, shorter neck, and relatively short legs compared to other egrets.
During the breeding season, it develops buff-coloured plumes on its head, chest, and back, and its bill and legs take on a vivid reddish hue. Its habit of following cattle and other large animals to catch insects stirred up by their movement showcases its opportunistic nature and has endeared it to observers worldwide.
In Wisconsin, Cattle Egrets are occasional visitors, with nesting being an uncommon event. When they do nest, they often choose colonies in trees or shrubs, sometimes in association with other wading birds. Their nests are built from sticks and provide a secure site for raising their young.
Unlike other herons, Cattle Egrets have a terrestrial foraging habit, often seen in fields and pastures. They feed on insects, especially grasshoppers and crickets, frequently following livestock to catch prey disturbed by the animals’ movement. This behavior showcases their adaptability and opportunistic feeding strategy.
Originally native to parts of Africa and Asia, Cattle Egrets have undergone a remarkable range expansion and are now found across much of the Americas. Their adaptability to various habitats and association with agricultural landscapes have facilitated this spread. In Wisconsin, maintaining open fields and pastures can support any transient or nesting individuals that may occur.
6. Black-Crowned Night-Heron
- Scientific name: Nycticorax nycticorax
- Life span: 20 years
- Size: 61-69 cm (24-27 in)
- Weight: 0.6-1.2 kg (1.3-2.6 lbs)
- Wingspan: 91-122 cm (36-48 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and rare
- Migratory behaviour: Departs by late October.
The Black-crowned Night-Heron is a stocky bird with a broad distribution, inhabiting wetlands across the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia. True to its name, this heron is most active during dusk and nighttime hours. Adults display a distinctive black crown and back, contrasting sharply with their pale gray wings and white underparts.
Their red eyes and short, thick bills add to their distinctive appearance. Juveniles, however, sport a different look, with brown, streaky plumage that provides excellent camouflage among reeds and marsh grasses. Often seen perched quietly during the day, these herons come alive in the twilight, adding a mysterious charm to their wetland homes.
In Wisconsin, Black-crowned Night-Herons often nest in colonies alongside other waterbird species. They utilize a variety of habitats for nesting, ranging from ground sites to high trees, often favouring locations over water or on islands to reduce predation risks. Their nests are constructed from sticks and lined with finer materials, providing a secure environment for their offspring.
Primarily nocturnal feeders, these herons have a diverse diet that includes fish, insects, crustaceans, and small mammals. Their night-time foraging habits allow them to exploit food resources with reduced competition from diurnal predators, showcasing their ecological niche.
Black-crowned Night-Herons have experienced population fluctuations due to habitat loss and environmental contaminants. Conservation efforts focusing on wetland preservation and pollution control are vital to support their populations in Wisconsin. Monitoring programs help track their numbers and inform management strategies.
7. Snowy Egret
- Scientific name: Egretta thula
- Life span: 17 years
- Size: 56-66 cm (22-26 in)
- Weight: 0.3-0.6 kg (0.7-1.3 lbs)
- Wingspan: 86-102 cm (34-40 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
- Migratory behaviour: Departs by late October.
The Snowy Egret, a smaller yet equally captivating bird, graces wetlands and coastal regions of the Americas. Its pure white feathers are complemented by slender black legs and bright yellow feet, which it uses to stir up prey in the water. The Snowy Egret’s black bill and expressive yellow eyestripes give it a lively and inquisitive expression.
During the breeding season, it develops delicate, lacy plumes on its head, neck, and back, reminiscent of the ornate decorations that once made it a target for plume hunters. Today, the Snowy Egret stands as a testament to successful conservation efforts, enchanting observers with its lively foraging dances and striking appearance.
In Wisconsin, Snowy Egrets are occasional visitors, with nesting being a rare occurrence. When they do nest, they prefer colonies in trees or shrubs near water, often alongside other wading birds. Their nests are constructed from sticks and lined with finer materials, providing a stable platform for their eggs.
Their diet includes small fish, crustaceans, and insects. Snowy Egrets are active foragers, often seen stirring the water with their bright yellow feet to flush out prey—a distinctive behavior that sets them apart from other heron species.
Historically, Snowy Egrets faced significant declines due to plume hunting. Conservation efforts, including legal protections and habitat preservation, have facilitated their recovery. Continued monitoring and protection of wetland habitats are essential to support any potential nesting populations in Wisconsin.
8. Little Blue Heron
- Scientific name: Egretta caerulea
- Life span: 6 years
- Size: 56-76 cm (22-30 in)
- Weight: 0.3-0.6 kg (0.7-1.3 lbs)
- Wingspan: 86-102 cm (34-40 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
- Migratory behaviour: Leaves by late October.
The Little Blue Heron is a medium-sized wader found primarily in the southeastern United States, Central America, and the Caribbean. Adults are cloaked in rich slate-blue plumage, with a purplish-maroon head and neck that add a subtle yet striking contrast. Their long, pointed bills are grayish with a black tip, perfectly suited for their hunting techniques.
Interestingly, juveniles are entirely white, often leading to confusion with other white egrets. As they mature, their plumage gradually transitions to the deep blues and purples of adulthood. This color transformation adds an intriguing aspect to the Little Blue Heron’s life story, making it a favorite among bird enthusiasts.
Little Blue Herons are uncommon in Wisconsin, with nesting being a rare event. When nesting occurs, they select secluded areas near water, constructing stick nests in trees or shrubs. These solitary nesters prefer habitats that offer ample foraging opportunities and minimal disturbance.
Their diet consists mainly of small fish, amphibians, and insects. Little Blue Herons employ a patient hunting strategy, standing still or slowly stalking their prey in shallow waters. Their foraging success is closely tied to the health of wetland ecosystems.
Due to their rarity in the state, Little Blue Herons benefit from conservation actions that protect and restore wetland habitats. Maintaining these environments is crucial to support any transient or nesting individuals that may occur in Wisconsin.
Where to find Herons of Wisconsin
If you want to see herons in Wisconsin, the key is to visit the right habitats—wetlands, lakes, and slow-moving rivers—especially in the early morning or late afternoon when these birds are most active. Herons are often seen wading through shallow water, patiently waiting for fish or frogs to move. Binoculars are helpful since these birds can be skittish and prefer a bit of distance from people. Look for their long, slender necks and sharp beaks, either perched in trees near the water or silently stalking prey along the shoreline.
Here are four great spots to find herons in Wisconsin:
- Horicon Marsh – One of the largest freshwater marshes in the U.S., home to Great Blue Herons, American Bitterns, and more.
- Necedah National Wildlife Refuge – A mix of wetlands and open water where Green Herons and Great Egrets can often be spotted.
- Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary – Located in Green Bay, this area provides great viewing opportunities for several heron species.
- Lake Winnebago Shorelines – The shallows and marshy edges of Wisconsin’s largest inland lake attract wading birds throughout the warmer months.
Conclusion
Herons add beauty and life to Wisconsin’s wetlands, from the common Great Blue Heron to the elusive American Bittern. Protecting these birds means preserving their habitats. Whether you’re birdwatching or simply enjoying nature, herons are always a rewarding sight. With conservation, their presence will continue for generations to come.
