HERON NO. 9

Heron No. 9 is a great blue heron at Charles Towne Landing in Charleston, SC. They kindly take in injured shorebirds and release after healing. While the shorebirds are there, visitors may go into their open air enclosure - an incredible experience. The great blue heron is the largest heron in North America, standing up to 4.5 feet tall with a wingspan of 6-7 feet. Its slate-blue plumage, long legs, and S-shaped neck give it a statuesque and graceful appearance. These solitary waders are often seen along rivers, lakes, and marshes. They stand perfectly still as they hunt, fish, amphibians, and small mammals with their sharp spearlike bill. They nest in tall trees or shrubs in colonies called rookeries.