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Great Blue Heron Rookery Project
Made possible by support from Dominion Resources
The National Audubon Society and Dominion Resources are partnering to bring information to the public on a regular basis as we move through the late winter to mid-spring timeframe of the life stages of a Great Blue Heron Rookery on the James River in Richmond, Virginia. Please visit this website regularly. Each week, we will post new videos and photographs, interviews with experts and events, throughout mid-February to mid-May 2011.

In the midst of the City of Richmond, the James River hosts a unique natural wonder in its Great Blue Heron Rookery located just west of the 14th Street Bridge. Every late winter and early spring, the Rookery provides essential breeding and nesting habitat for approximately 40 Great Blue Herons and a few pairs of Great Egrets. The Herons in particular go through elaborate courtship behaviors, build their nests and raise their young all in a location for many bird watchers and nature enthusiasts to enjoy.

The James River Great Blue Heron Rookery is located just west of the 14th Street Bridge in Richmond, Virginia, on a large island. The Rookery can best be viewed from the north side of the River from the James River Park System’s Pipeline Walk.

Herons have already begun arriving to the rookery and are currently forming pair bonds, with March being the best time to witness the elaborate courtship rituals of this amazing species.


Great Blue Heron Rookery Occupies James River Island

With John Ogle, WCVE-FM
04/14/2011

People in the Richmond area have a unique opportunity over the next few weeks. The eggs of some magnificent birds are beginning to hatch on a small island in the James. Click here to listen to the audio.


Guided Walks

Our first four Guided Walks were great! Please check back soon for additional info and dates.

Please call Audubon’s Important Bird Area Program (804) 788-7660, or The James River Park System office (804) 646-8911 for more information. You can also email Mary Elfner, or James River Park.


May 15, 2011: Bonus Video 12 Week Summary
To view additional Photos and Videos in our Archives, click here.


Week of May 1, 2011
To view additional Photos and Videos in our Archives, click here.

Photos
Click thumbnail image to launch slideshow.