Grey heron
Latin: Ardea cinerea
Order: Pelecaniformes
Family: Ardeidae
It is found throughout temperate Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. The bird inhabits various wetland habitats including lakes, rivers, ponds, marshes, and on the sea coast. It is an adaptable bird and can also be found in urban areas near water bodies.
In Ukraine, its distribution patterns may vary, but it’s generally widespread and can be encountered in various regions of the country where suitable habitat conditions exist.
It can typically be seen standing still or wading slowly in shallow water, patiently waiting for prey to come within striking distance.
Its diet consists of fish, various aquatic vertebrates, insects, mollusks, and crustaceans. Additionally, grey heron hunts small mammals like mice, voles, and even young rabbits. It may forage in fields near water bodies to capture these prey.