WADING BIRDS
On this page you will find photos of the herons, egrets and night herons, as well as ibis and bittern, that we see most often on Long Island.
You can click on any of the photo categories to view images in both summer & winter plumage & more identity tips.
Basic Characteristics
- Medium to large wading birds
- Usually seen standing in shallow water while hunting
- Spears fish with long bills
- Usually nests in trees or shrubs
- In flight, neck folded in S-shape, legs trailing
- Many have plumes in breeding season
- Sexes usually similar
Basic Characteristics
- Medium to large wading birds
- Usually seen standing in shallow water while hunting
- Spears fish with long bills
- Usually nests in trees or shrubs
- Neck short & thick, extends when alarmed
- Herons have plumes in breeding season
- Sexes similar
Basic Characteristics
- Compact, chicken-shaped, marsh birds
- Secretive habits, usually heard before seen
- Brief flights with legs dangling
- Sexes similar
- Eats frogs, crustaceans, marsh plants & insects
