How to Identify a Green heron: Not a Great Blue Heron

Animal identifier ยท Birds

Green heron identification photo
Photo: DJB_Images / Pixabay

Butorides virescens

Pond edges across much of the Lower 48. A small dark heron with a chestnut neck.

What does a green heron look like?

A small dark heron with a chestnut neck.

What sign does it leave?

green heron tracks
Track diagram for identification. Compare it with the print in front of you.

A small skinny print in pond mud.

Droppings

green heron droppings
Dropping diagram. Do not handle droppings.

Whitewash on a limb. Do not handle droppings.

Where you find it

Pond edges across much of the Lower 48.

This page is a field guide, not a permit to approach wildlife. If a bird is injured, call a local wildlife rehabilitator.

Often confused with a great blue heron. All animal identification pages.