Explore the world of the Great Blue Herons and learn why these majestic birds are such a vital part of Stanley Park’s ecosystem.
Program Overview
Whether you are on the shoreline of the seawall, the banks of Beaver Lake, or at lovely Lost Lagoon, one giant bird is often found standing stoic and still. The Pacific Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias fannini) is an iconic species in Stanley Park and as beloved as it is intriguing. Are they modern-day dinosaurs? How do they catch fish so expertly? How long do they live and how do they raise their young? In this program, SPES educators dive into the unique lives of these Pacific Great Blue Heron and explore the challenges they face in an urban environment.
What You’ll Learn
- Evolution and Pre-History of Herons
Discover the origins of herons, how they evolved into the skilled hunters we see today, and where they fit into the broader bird lineage. - The Stanley Park Colony
Learn about the unique heron colony right here in Stanley Park, how it has adapted to urban life, and the special role it plays in the local ecosystem. - Yearly Life Cycle of a Heron
Follow the annual journey of the Pacific great blue heron, from nest building to chick-rearing and beyond, through each season in the park - Conservation
Explore the conservation challenges that herons face and find out how we can all contribute to their protection.
Watch the Program
Running Time: 58 minutes
Additional Resources
To help you dive even deeper, here are some additional resources and activities related to the Great Blue Heron:
- Heron Fact Sheet
Get answers to common questions about the colony, heron biology, conservation status, and more. Learn More - Breeding Season Timeline
Discover how the colony progresses through the breeding season with a visual timeline featuring heron chicks and their incredible growth journey. View Timeline - History of Stanley Park’s Herons
Stanley Park has hosted heron families for over a century. Learn about past colonies and the changes over the years. Discover History - Attend a Program
Join us for one of our in-person or online programs focused on the Pacific great blue heron. Learn directly from SPES naturalists, ask questions, and witness the herons in their natural habitat. Find Upcoming Programs
Take Action for Herons
Want to help protect Stanley Park’s herons? Here are some ways to make a difference:
- Volunteer with SPES
Join our dedicated volunteers who help monitor and support the heron colony and other species in Stanley Park. Learn More - Adopt a Heron Nest
For $54, you may symbolically adopt a heron nest to support their conservation. Register one in your name, as a gift, or in honor of a loved one! Adopt Now
Explore More Wildlife Programs
Curious to learn about more of Stanley Park’s wildlife? Check out these other videos in our Wildlife Watch series:
Thank you to TD Friends of the Environment Foundation for supporting this project!