Grey heron by Kevin Woolner 1/10
Grey heron by David Savory 2/10
Grey heron by Jackie Dent 3/10
Grey heron by Pat Adams 4/10
Grey Heron by Julian Thomas 5/10
Grey heron by Philip Ashton 6/10
Grey heron by David Thacker 7/10
Grey heron by Elizabeth Dack 8/10
Grey heron by Mali Halls 9/10
Grey heron by Elizabeth Dack 10/10

Grey heron Ardea cinerea

This elegant bird can often be seen at the edge of a dyke in Norfolk, as it patiently waits for its prey to pass. With its dagger-like beak and its silent, slow movement making it an excellent predator of any passing fish.

Conservation status

Grey herons are common birds and are not at risk. Classified in the UK as a Green list species under the Birds of Conservation Concern 4 (2015).
From BTO population surveys data shows numbers have generally decreased in the East of England since 1995, however have started to increase again in recent years.

Related questions & advice

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Details

Did you know? The other name for grey heron in Norfolk is the Harnser – there are several pubs called The Harnser in the Broads. The collective name for a group of herons is a siege.
A decoy heron on a garden pond is more likely to attract herons than deter them.
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