united

Looney Island, pt. 3

A quick check of the great blue heron rookery on Looney Island found several of the old nests now being occupied by mated pairs. The activity level has increased, herons were coming and going, with males bringing offerings of food to their new mates. (Nothin’ says lovin’ like a regurgitated fish!)

It’s somehow comforting to know that the patience, or tenacity, of the males that claimed their sites early has paid off. (See February 18 and 19 postings.) Observing their nesting activities will become more difficult, if not impossible, as soon as the leaves return to the trees in a few weeks.

Photo: After a foraging trip, the mated pair of herons are reunited at the nest.