What does the Grey Heron eat?

The Grey Heron's diet shapes where and when you'll find it. Understanding what it eats helps you predict where to look.

Diet overview

Carnivore, primarily piscivorous (fish-eating), but highly opportunistic.

How it forages

A patient ambush predator. It stands motionless in shallow water, or walks slowly, waiting for prey to come within striking distance. It then spears its prey with a rapid thrust of its neck and bill. Diet includes fish, amphibians, reptiles, small mammals (voles, shrews), large insects, and occasionally small birds.

When it feeds

Primarily diurnal, but will also forage at night, especially during full moon or when feeding young.

Explore the Grey Heron