Grey Heron photographed at Bas Capelles [BAS] on 4/2/2012 Photo: © Rod Ferbrache (visit site)

This species is a common and very obvious constituent of the local avifauna in the Bailiwick. Individuals can be found throughout the year with 5-10 first year birds summering in most years. In autumn and winter roosts can develop with up to 25 birds at La Claire Mare, the Track Marais and Fort le Crocq. The highest counts tend to be in December and January particularly during periods of cold weather. Studies elsewhere have shown that birds return repeatedly to specific feeding sites. The large tidal range around the coast provides an abundant variety of feeding opportunities with a diverse selection of prey species being available.

The species has never been reported as breeding in the Bailiwick and it is a scarce breeding bird in Normandy. The species is rapidly increasing its range in Europe.