Exposed: Green Heron

Although quite common around wetlands and creeks in our area, Green Herons seldom expose themselves to photographers or birdwatchers.  The most common sightings of them are when they suddenly flush from the thick brush and just as quickly drop back into it after a short flight. 

This time I was the one concealed in the thick foliage when as a green heron hunted the marsh.  A few minutes before these photos were taken I was able to observe this bird catch and swallow a good sized bullfrog however intervening leaves prevent photography. 

With neck extended the appearance of the green heron is strikingly different than when it is pulled tight against their body as seen in the image below.