Great Blue Herons: Viewing Event at Utah’s Eccles Wildlife Education Center
Salt Lake City — Bird enthusiasts will have a chance to observe great blue herons in their natural habitat at an upcoming viewing event hosted by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR). The event offers a unique opportunity to witness these large, unique birds up close.
Great blue herons are the most widespread North American heron species, found from Alaska to northern South America. In Utah, they are commonly seen along the shorelines of lakes and rivers and in marshes throughout the state.
Nesting Season and Rookery
Each year, from February to June, great blue herons nest in a rookery located near the DWR’s George S. And Dolores Doré Eccles Wildlife Education Center. These birds primarily feed on fish and amphibians, building their nests in tree-top colonies near the water. Males gather nesting materials – typically sticks – while females construct the nests, which can reach up to 3 ½ feet in diameter. Nests are often reused for multiple years, making the Eccles Wildlife Education Center rookery an ideal location for viewing.
Event Details
The free viewing event will take place on Saturday, April 18, from 11 a.m. To 3 p.m. At the Eccles Wildlife Education Center, located at 1157 S. Waterfowl Way in Farmington. DWR biologists will be on hand to answer questions and assist visitors in spotting the herons. Spotting scopes and binoculars will be available, though visitors are encouraged to bring their own if they have them.
To minimize disturbance to the herons, visitors are asked to remain in the parking lot area and on designated trails, and to avoid approaching the rookery poles.
Additional Activities and Registration
A family-friendly egg decorating craft will be available inside the education center while supplies last. Bathroom facilities are also available at the center.
Participants are asked to register in advance on Eventbrite and to bring a nonperishable canned food item to donate to the Bountiful Food Pantry, supporting the local community.
About Great Blue Herons
Great blue herons are carnivores, consuming a diet of fish and amphibians. They can live in both freshwater and saltwater habitats, as well as grasslands and agricultural fields.
The herons lay between one and seven eggs each year, with both parents sharing incubation duties for 25 to 29 days. Young herons typically learn to fly after two months, but may remain near the nest for up to five months.
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