C/S:   Great Blue Heron     Ardea herodias       Av. Size:   50 in ( 127 cm); 70 in wingspan       Sounds:   harsh croaking sound       Identifying Characteristics:   large gray bird with black on shoulders; neck is more tan/reddish, with black and white mix down front of neck; pale/cream face and head w/ swath of black running from above eye; legs gray becoming more orange during breeding season       Similar to/Compare with:   white morphs can be confused with Great Egrets       Range:   North America through Mexico       Habitat:   Fresh and saltwater habitats       Other Info/Notes on Photo:   largest North American heron