Green Heron

The Green Heron is a small, stocky wading bird, common in wetlands across much of North America. Greenish black cap on head with a rufous (reddish-brown) neck. The crest can be raised on back of head. Eyes orange or yellow. Wings blackish with green or blue gloss. Underparts gray. Wing feathers edged in buff. Legs yellow or yellowish orange - changing to glossy orange during breeding season.
The male and female are similar, but the female is slightly smaller, duller, and lighter.
It can be very difficult to spot as it stands motionless waiting for small fish to approach within striking range. It frequently announces its presence by its loud squawking. The flight or alarm call is an explosive “skeow.” Also make series of “kuk-kuk-kuk-kuk” notes. Green Herons inhabit small freshwater wetlands, ponds, and stream-sides lined with thick vegetation. During the winter, they frequent coastal areas and mangrove swamps.
Green Herons were not reported in Washington until 1939. Scattered summer observations were reported after 1939 in western Washington and the first nest was discovered in 1960. The Green Heron is one of the few tool-using birds. It commonly drops bait onto the surface of the water and grabs the small fish that are attracted. It uses a variety of baits and lures, including crusts of bread, insects, earthworms, twigs, or feathers.