Heron Guano

[smallmouthjoe]

Hello everyone,

I have a strange question, does anyone know of any Great Blue Heron rookeries? I'm doing a project for a class where I'm testing whether members of the cyprinid (minnow) family will react to chemical alarm cues in Blue Heron feces. I've got a decent idea on how to test it, the problem is I don't know where to come up with fresh Heron poop. I may need it in large quantities and this is why I would prefer to find a rookery and I do need it fresh in order to prevent any breakdown of the chemical. If anyone knows of one or has any alternative idea on where I could come up Heron guano please let me know. Thanks.

[eric1978]

I don't know where any heron rookeries are, but I can get you some control samples if you need them.

Interesting experiment...let us know what you come up with.

[Outside Bend]

I'm not sure of any rookeries, but I do know Shepherd of the Hills hatchery has a lot of issues with herons in their raceways. You may be able to pick the hatchery manager's brains, or even sweet-talk them into letting you get some stool samples.

[flytyer57]

I think you picked one heck of a crappy subject to study.

[Trout Commander]

I think you picked one heck of a crappy subject to study.

Yeah, sounds like it's for the birds man.

I will resonate what OB said, there seems to be a healthy population of residents at the buffet there.

[Greasy B]

I couldn’t point you to an active heron rookery but these birds are more plentiful on the White River tailwaters than anywhere I have ever been. I think herons at a typical rookery are pretty sensitive to any disruption. Maybe digging for the poop at the artificially abundant heron rookeries along the tailwaters would be less disruptive.

[Bird Watcher]

I don't know where any are that are closer than a 2hr drive for you. I was just looking at one last weekend and they were starting to colonize it for spring. Not all the nests were claimed yet, but the best locations in the heart of the colony had two birds standing in each one I will say this, they are easy to spot from a long distance this time of year. If you just drive some creek bottoms, look for all the nests,(usually 20-30+) congregated in the tops of the tallest grove of trees.

[smallmouthjoe]

Excellent suggestions guys. I might try calling shepherd of the hills tomorrow and see if I can come down there and find some. Hey Eric, you can send your control sample to MSU. Just dump in a box and send it to the Biology Department Head with a note that says, "from your adoring students". Better yet send it to the president. Thanks for the suggestions guys.

[skeeter]

Hello everyone,

I have a strange question, does anyone know of any Great Blue Heron rookeries? I'm doing a project for a class where I'm testing whether members of the cyprinid (minnow) family will react to chemical alarm cues in Blue Heron feces. I've got a decent idea on how to test it, the problem is I don't know where to come up with fresh Heron poop. I may need it in large quantities and this is why I would prefer to find a rookery and I do need it fresh in order to prevent any breakdown of the chemical. If anyone knows of one or has any alternative idea on where I could come up Heron guano please let me know. Thanks.

Go directly across the main Lake at Table Rock from Point 19. There are two small coves there on the Eastern bank that are not deep nor long. On the right hand or Southern bank of the Northernmost cove there are several tall Pine trees that Great Blue Herons nest in every Spring. They are very noticeable every year with all the noise they make coming back to the nests with food for their young.

In other words those Herons shouldn't poop where they eat ? [grin] Good luck with your research.

[Gavin]

Heron Rookeries arent hard to find...Usually see them by the river, 75'-100' off the ground in giant sycamore trees. You will need some good climbing gear.