Book 4, Question 148
Why Do Herons Stand So Still?
Herons stand still because they are hunting! Fish and frogs can see movement, so a heron holds very quiet in the shallow water. When prey swims close, the heron strikes in a flash.
More fun facts
- Herons catch food by walking slowly or standing still for a long time, waiting for fish to come close.
- When a fish is in range, a heron strikes with its long neck and blade-like bill.
- The great blue heron is the largest heron in North America. Its wings stretch 5.5 to 6.6 feet.
- Great blue herons have choked trying to swallow fish that were too big.
- Besides fish, mice are a big part of a great blue heron's diet.
- Great blue herons sometimes hover and drop feet-first to grab food from the water's surface, something most herons do not do.
Sources: National Geographic, Scientific American, BBC
Questions kids ask
Why does a heron stand so still?
It is waiting. A heron can stand still for a long time until a fish swims within reach of its long neck and sharp bill.