Great Blues

One species in these parts that appears to be doing very well in spite of the urban growth are Great Blue Herons. I see them everywhere -- except my back yard, of course (no standing water!) and during my frenetic "Duck Day" tour yesterday I spotted them at every body of water I visited. I have no statistics to prove it but I am even wondering if their numbers are on the increase within Cary city limits. I don't recall seeing nearly so many when I came here in 1990. This one was maintaining something of a patrol from 60 feet up in a Loblolly Pine tree at one of the larger parks. It didn't seem concerned about me as I took photographs. They do occur at a seven acre pond a few hundred feet from our home but I have never seen one even fly over the structure. Perhaps someday... No matter what I enjoy seeing them around.