LAKES & PONDS, WETLANDS, RIVERS & STREAMS
GREY HERON
Ardea cinerea
Behind its elegant appearance, the Grey Heron is a surprisingly opportunistic hunter. Fish are only part of its menu — it also catches frogs, voles, young birds and even small rabbits, sometimes hunting in fields.
And it doesn't always catch its own meals. Grey Herons have even been observed stealing prey from other hunters, including cormorants, grebes and otters.
SPECIES
AT A GLANCE
A quick guide to the key facts about this species, from its habitat and characteristics to where and when it can be seen.
Comon Name
GREY HERON
Scientific Name
Ardea cinerea
Family
Ardeidae
Habitat
Lakes, rivers, ponds, wetlands and shallow waters. Also found in meadows and agricultural fields.
Diet
Mainly fish, amphibians and small mammals. Also eats insects, reptiles and occasionally small birds.
Distribution
Widespread across Europe, Asia and parts of Africa.
Best Time to See
Year-round in Germany. Particularly active when hunting in the early morning and evening.
Places observed
Germany