Green Heron
Butorides virescens
Photo taken at Gilbert Water Ranch, Maricopa Co., AZ., Feb. 2011.
Depending on the light direction and intensity this small heron's plumage will appear brown, green or reddish in color; the legs are yellow. Green herons are quite common in the Sonoran Desert wherever water is present. They can be found along riparian streams, river edges, and urban ponds. They are even satisfied with irrigation ditches and flooded agricultural fields. They are year-round residents. They take small fish, amphibians and insects as prey.