The great blue heron (Ardea herodias) is a major predator of salmon and one of the many dangers that out-migrating juveniles face (Sherker et. al. 2021). The largest North American heron, this bird hunts in shallow water environments like marshes, floodplains, and even agricultural fields. They wade incredibly slowly through the water and often remain still for long periods of time as they forage. Once within striking distance, the heron will either snatch smaller prey or spear larger prey using its long, sharp beak

[Photo and caption by Cassidy Cooper]

Reference:

Sherker, Z.T., Pellett, K., Atkinson, J., Damborg, J. and Trites, A.W., 2021. Pacific Great Blue Herons (Ardea herodias fannini) consume thousands of juvenile salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.). Canadian Journal of Zoology, 99(5), pp.349-361

[Edited by Maggie Creamer]