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Bird✓ Protected species

Heron

Ardea spp.

What to do NOW

  1. 1WARNING: a heron's beak is a weapon — it can pierce an eye at 50 cm distance
  2. 2ALWAYS approach from behind
  3. 3Immediately throw a cloth or towel over the head — it calms almost instantly
  4. 4With the head covered: grasp the wings against the body and lift
  5. 5Large box with holes, tall enough for it to stand upright
  6. 6Contact CRAS urgently

NEVER do this

  • Do not approach from the front or without covering the head — serious risk of eye injury
  • Do not give fish or food: herons do not eat while stationary in captivity without training
  • Do not keep on hard surfaces: feet ulcerate (pododermatitis)

Important note

Herons found in urban areas are often victims of abandoned fishing nets or lines. If entangled: never cut blindly (risk of injury). Keep the head covered throughout handling. Wounds from fishing line to the beak or feet require specialist veterinary care.

Legal protection

All heron species are protected by the Birds Directive (Annex I for some species) and Law 157/1992.

Also known as

  • grey heron
  • great white egret
  • little egret
  • purple heron
  • night heron
  • squacco heron

Similar animals

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