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Birds
and Water
Great blue herons are majestic birds that can trace their ancestors
back to the time of dinosaurs. How have they survived for so long?
By nesting in large colonies of up to 135 nests in out-of-the-way
swamps and wetland areas. These tactics have helped keep them safe
from wildlife predators like raccoons and bobcats. But as humans
alter wetlands, introduce pollutants to the water, and disturb the
rookeries during the nesting season, herons are abandoning the communities
they have called home for years. Since other birds, including bald
eagles, often nest in heron rookeries, they are protected by law.
As more humans head to the water for recreation and relaxation,
they might disturb herons accidentally or, sometimes, on purpose.
Thus, the quiet areas herons need for successful breeding are becoming
endangered.
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