Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Patient of the Week: Great Blue Heron

This Great Blue Heron was a lucky survivor of discarded fishing gear.

When first found, the bird had multiple hooks embedded in the right wing, across the body, and even one just behind the left eye.

These hooks forced the heron’s head painfully to one side and prevented the right wing from extending. In this condition, the bird could neither fly nor walk straight.

Thankfully, a community member spotted the bird in distress. Loudoun County Animal Services assisted in containing it safely, and Kristi’s Caring Hands Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education transported the heron to us for treatment.

Amazingly, the wounds turned out to be superficial.

After less than a week of care, a negative avian influenza test (standard for all waterfowl/shorebirds), and successful flight testing, this heron was cleared for release!

This rescue was only possible because of teamwork across organizations and caring individuals.

Thank you to everyone who played a role—it truly takes a village!

Did you know?

• Great Blue Herons are North America’s largest heron, standing up to 4.5 feet tall with wingspans of 6–7 feet.
• Despite their size, they are graceful hunters. They move slowly through shallow waters, striking fish, amphibians, and even small mammals with lightning speed.
• Their blue-gray feathers and long legs make them easy to spot, but they’re also masters of patience…often standing motionless for long periods waiting for the perfect catch.
• Great Blue Herons are year-round residents in Northern Virginia. They’re hardy birds that can withstand cold winters as long as there’s access to unfrozen water where they can fish.

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