Almost Ready to Fly

These two Great Blue Heron juveniles have grown tall and are almost ready to fledge. They were watching anxiously for parents to come deliver food (no luck), and the brave one was trying to jump and fly.

Young Great Blue Heron’s attempt to jump and fly. One chick keeps trying. Venice, Florida 2023.

Juvenile Great Blue Heron tests its wings, hoping to take flight in Venice, Florida 2023.

Like the Bald Eagle, the Great Blue Heron grows to nearly full size before it can fly and catch its own food. I find this stage fun to observe, photograph and share.