Story: Herons

Reef heron

Reef heron

Reef herons are found around many New Zealand coasts, but being primarily a tropical species they are more common in Northland and become scarcer further south. They live on rocky shores, mudflats and among mangroves, but not on sandy beaches. When stalking prey they crouch over the water like a coiled spring, suddenly unfurling their neck as they pounce.

Using this item

Department of Conservation
Reference: 10025552

This item has been provided for private study purposes (such as school projects, family and local history research) and any published reproduction (print or electronic) may infringe copyright law. It is the responsibility of the user of any material to obtain clearance from the copyright holder.

All images & media in this story

How to cite this page:

Gerard Hutching, 'Herons - Other herons', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/6433/reef-heron (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by Gerard Hutching, published 12 Jun 2006, reviewed & revised 17 Feb 2015