Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodius) grooming in pine tree.
The Great Blue Heron is categorized with wading birds in current bird field guides. It seems rather contradictory to then find them grooming for extended periods of time in conspicuous areas of tall pine trees.
However, these herons typically nest in treetops near or over open water. Perhaps the combination of food close by, but protection against predators on the ground make it an idea spot for laying eggs and raising young.
This particular pine tree, at Kathryn Albertson Park in Boise, looked to be about 70 to 80 feet tall, which provided a beautiful blue sky as a background.
Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodius) grooming in pine tree.
The Great Blue Heron is categorized with wading birds in current bird field guides. It seems rather contradictory to then find them grooming for extended periods of time in conspicuous areas of tall pine trees.
However, these herons typically nest in treetops near or over open water. Perhaps the combination of food close by, but protection against predators on the ground make it an idea spot for laying eggs and raising young.
This particular pine tree, at Kathryn Albertson Park in Boise, looked to be about 70 to 80 feet tall, which provided a beautiful blue sky as a background.