Because of their size and long sharp beaks, it can be hard to imagine that herons have any natural predators. While they do, they definitely don’t have nearly as many predators as most other types of birds. So what animals eat herons?
Predators Of Adult Herons
For most predators taking on an adult great blue heron is not an option. These birds are predators themselves and also happen to stand close to four and a half feet tall and can have an intimidating six and a half foot wingspan. And of course, that’s not to mention their formidable beak which they use to impale prey and can also be used as a weapon.
In fact, it’s not unheard of for predators to be mortally wounded from a heron’s beak while attempting to catch and eat one of these large birds. In North America coyotes, bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, and bobcats eat herons. However, while they can do it, because of the potential danger involved it typically doesn’t happen often.
However in the southern United States alligators eat herons much more regularly right along with other water birds such as egrets, storks, and waterfowl as well. For this reason, a floating alligator decoy is often very effective at keeping herons away from backyard ponds where they may feed on pond fish.
Predators Of Young Herons And Heron Eggs
There are more predators that prey on young herons and eggs since it’s much less dangerous. For example raccoons, opossums, foxes, minks, weasels, seagulls, crows, hawks, and eagles are all known to do so. Alligators will also prey on young herons that fall out of nests in the trees above.
And they sometimes wait patiently below until they do. Interestingly in certain areas, it has been observed that herons will purposely nest over locations that have gators directly below them. It is believed that this is done on purpose since alligators are very efficient at keeping nest-raiding predators away such as raccoons.
The alligators may get lucky every once in a while when a baby heron happens to fall out. And by nesting there the herons don’t have to deal with other predator species sneaking into their nests and eating all of their eggs or young.
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