Heron 'zen'

kerry4sam

Can anyone tell me about Herons.

Their is this one heron that captured my fascination with a number of years, but I've not seen him since before Christmas.

Do they migrate? He was always in this one location and I miss observing the lickle dude. I nick-named him 'Zen' for his calmness and focus. When would he be likely to return?

He was always down by a river where I would walk; and sit and read



Thanking You,
kerry4sam

ytpe2r5bxkn0c1

Herons that breed in Ireland are sedentary but some come here in Winter from Scandinavia and Britain. They usually frequent the same range all year round but can travel a bit further afield when feeding young. If you saw him up to Christmas he should have been around at least until February if he was a winter visitor. Although as this winter was so mild he may have headed home to breed early this year.

dodderangler

How long is a few years mate?
Herons I think only live to about 6 years if they're lucky.
It may have died or found new hunting grounds

Bsal

There typical lifespan is 5 years, the oldest recorded by the BTO was 23 years 9 months 2 days (set in 2003).

kerry4sam

AH no way with yer 5-6 year life-span! I'm just going to go with 'Home to breed early this year!' as I loved watching this dude

It would be in around the 4-5year marker alright that he would be there. Passed the location numerous times since Christmas and no sight. January & February just flew by for me; days seem to merge into each other (my Loving Dad was laid to Rest day before Christmas Eve) so I honestly cannot recall if I saw this lickle dude during the months of January and/or February.

Yeah I'm going with either gone home to breed or found new hunting grounds, although he done well for himself in this location,

Thanks all for your replies,
kerry4sam

ytpe2r5bxkn0c1

5 years is an average and most mortality is actually in the first two years. If a bird gets past the two year mark it is quite likely to live for many more years.

Keep watching. Its breeding season at the moment and he may well be feeding in an area that suits food for the young. You may well see home later in the early summer.

kerry4sam

Out n about yesterday and I saw my Heron had returned. Attached is his pic (from my mobile) from yesterday and his 'Home' / surroundings.

Unusual to have him around this time of year, no?

ytpe2r5bxkn0c1

Just as I said!. Breeding is over for him and he is now having some "me time".
Not an unusual time of year at all.