This is Bird Note.

Throughout much of North America, the great blue heron graces waterways, ponds, and lakes.

Standing silent as frogs call out, they peer into the water looking for fish and amphibians

before striking out with their long bill.

So, it might be a surprise to find a great blue heron stalking across a field, not a drop

of water in sight.

Is this heron just confused, or ill?

Well, sometimes herons will leave the water side in pursuit of prey on land, such as

big insects, frogs, even small rodents.

These birds are crafty predators, and their skills can also work well in grasslands and

crop fields.

So no cause for alarm if you see a heron in a yard or park away from the water.

The bird will probably fly off once catching plenty of prey.

Just when you think you know everything about a bird, they'll find a way to surprise you.

For Bird Note, I'm Michael Stein.

Support for Bird Note is provided by Ellen Blackstone from Edmunds, Washington, and

generous listeners around the world.