Great White Heron Facts

While many people are familiar with the great blue heron, they are often surprised to find out that there’s also a great white heron. There are many things you’ll want to know about this stunning bird. So here are the top great white heron facts.

The Great White Heron Is Not A Separate Species 

As of now, the great white heron is not considered to be a species. It is believed to be the same species as the much more common great blue heron. However, it is thought to simply be a white color morph. Unlike the great blue which is known for its grey-blue plumage, the great white is a completely white bird.

There’s Debate Over Its Status

There has been some debate over the topic of whether or not the great white heron is actually just a color morph. Many people believe it to be either a subspecies of the great blue heron or a separate species entirely. Other than the color difference, the argument for this is that the great white is slightly larger than the great blue. It also has a different bill shape and plume length on its head.

It Has A Very Limited Range

The great white heron range is limited. It is only found in the southern part of Florida along with the Florida Keys.  This stunning white bird can also be found in the Yucatan Peninsula, and the Caribbean Islands. Unlike the great blue heron which may be found in any wetland habitat (within its range) the white heron is mainly found near saltwater.

When It Interbreeds With The Great Blue Heron The Offspring Is Unique 

In areas where the ranges of the great blue heron and great white heron overlap breedings between the two sometimes occur.  The resulting offspring are known as Würdemann’s Herons. These birds have a body and markings that look similar to a great blue heron but with a white head.

They Have Their Very Own Refuge 

In 1938 The Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge was created as safe haven for white herons and other migratory birds and wildlife. Not only does the refuge provide safe feeding, resting, and nesting areas for a range of bird species but also a variety of sea turtle species as well.  It’s located in the Florida Keys in an area known as “the backcountry,” and encompasses close to 200,000 acres.

It Is Mistaken For The Great Egret 

The white heron is often confused for the great egret. This is understandable since they are both large, white, water birds. However, you can tell these similar-looking species apart by a few key features. In terms of size, great egrets are actually slightly smaller.

When you’re not sure which species you’re looking at, one of the great white heron facts you’ll want to remember is that they always have light-colored legs. This is in contrast to the great egret which always has black legs. White herons also have shaggier-looking feathers on their chest and heavier yellow-colored beaks.

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