The family Ardeidae encompasses 17 contemporary genera and 63 living species of medium- to large-sized waterbirds with long legs and necks. The members of this family are found in freshwater and saltwater habitats around the world, except the polar regions. Unlike other long-necked waterbirds herons fly with their necks retracted. Most species nest colonially in trees, bushes or reedbeds, sometimes alongside other species of herons, cormorants, ibises, etc. Bitterns and tiger-herons, are solitary nesters. Nests are made of tree branches or reed stems. Most species lay 3-7 eggs, but some tropical species apparently only one egg. Incubation lasts 20-30 days, depending on species, and young fledge in 14-30 days, or sooner, if disturbed. Most species feed while wading quietly in the shallow waters or grassy meadows, catching fish, frogs, small snakes, and aquatic invertebrates; night-herons sometimes prey on chicks of other birds nesting in mixed colonies.

		Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias)
		Capped Heron (Pilherodius pileatus)
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