This bird ranges from the Arctic regions to the West Indies and South America.
The Herons and Bitterns.
In the first mentioned of these two groups the Common Heron is the best known in the British Islands. Indeed, there must be few who have not encountered it in a wild state at some time or another. In suitable spots it may occasionally be met with standing mid-leg in water on the look-out for eels and other fish and frogs, a diet varied by an occasional young bird or small mammal. Sometimes this prey is hunted, so to speak, the bird walking along with a slow, measured step, striking with lightning rapidity and wonderful precision the moment its victim is sighted, whilst at others it stands motionless, as when fishing, striking the instant the unsuspecting eel or flounder comes within range.
Photo by W. P. Dando, F.Z.S.] [Regent's Park.
COMMON NIGHT-HERON.
This bird occasionally visits the British Islands.
Photo by Scholastic Photo. Co.] [Parson's Green.
YOUNG COMMON HERONS.