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The Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias)
The Great Blue Heron is a tall, patient bird commonly seen standing still along rivers, wetlands, and shorelines. Its long, sharp beak is shaped like a spear, helping it quickly catch fish, frogs, and small animals in the water or on grass. By moving slowly, the heron can surprise its prey with a fast strike. This beak shape, along with its long legs and careful movements, helps the Great Blue Heron find food and survive in wet places.