We had another nifty nature experience recently. A friend told us of a nesting phenomenon that she had seen north of Lapeer, so we headed out to find it one afternoon.
In a small section of trees surrounded by a corn field we came upon an amazing sight - a community of nesting Great Blue Herons!
Although we couldn't get very close, Grace was able to capture some spectacular pictures. You can't see it in this photo, but there were well over 20 of these high rises.
In a small section of trees surrounded by a corn field we came upon an amazing sight - a community of nesting Great Blue Herons!
Although we couldn't get very close, Grace was able to capture some spectacular pictures. You can't see it in this photo, but there were well over 20 of these high rises.
We were able to pull off onto the edge of the corn field and got out to get a better look. It was amazing to see those big birds perched so high in the trees!
Here you can see one of the birds coming in for a landing. Look at the birds sitting above or on their nests.
Gliding in over the budding tree tops . . .
Engaging landing gear . . . putting on the brakes!
Whoa! Catch your balance . . .
Kind of tricky to sit in this tree with such long legs!
*GULP* I'm not so sure I would want to be raised in that flimsy looking nest so high off the ground!
I found out that these large Heron communities are called (appropriately enough) "Heronries," and that they are used year after year by the same birds.
We were so grateful to be able to witness this incredible aspect of God's creation! If you live in the area you can e-mail or call us and we will give you directions so you can see for yourself. They should be nesting through mid -late May.
~Faith
1 comment:
Wow! I always assumed they nested on the ground, or in the water like swans. Very cool!
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