Watching a heron stalk live on Africam - pretty cool

[csziggy]

One of the Africam locations (now on YouTube) is a place called Rosie's Pan, a little pond created I think by daming up a natural spring. It was just past dawn when I turned to the channel and the camera operator had zoomed in on a gray heron. At first I thought the heron was standing still but he was oh so slowly moving - the water was so clear you could see his feet under the water moving in slow motion.

He worked his way across the pond, his eyes not moving from something on the other side. He got a bit away from a clump of reeds, then struck - and caught himself a big frong. Right now he's still beating up the frog getting it ready to swallow. Oh - the frog is history now.

I'd seen the heron there before and he always left disappointed. I didn't think there were any fish or other aquatic life in the pond. Now I know why he checks it out most mornings!

[North Shore Chicago]

1. A ravine

runs through my backyard, a blue Heron has been fishing here for years. The way she stalks is amazing! No fish, no frog has a chance. I turn away when she gets ready to pound the frog into submission however.

[csziggy]

2. At a wildlife reserve south of Lakeland, Florida, I got to see a heron with an amazing catch

I didn't get to see the stalking or the actual strike, but I saw a great blue heron with a greater siren salamander near as long as the heron was tall. He tried to swallow the the massive thing, but it was still alive and wriggling. It took a number of attempts before the bird was able to eat its catch.

Then after it had its meal the heron took off and flew over the path I was on. With such a heavy load, it almost brushed the top of my head with its legs!

I have pictures, but right now I can't post them right now.

[North Shore Chicago]

3. Just fortunate

to have a great view to the ravine, upper level looking down. How amazing the Heron got so close to you, you had the money shot! Would really enjoy your photos when you are able.