A heron is a tall, long-legged bird that usually lives near water and eats fish, frogs, and small animals. It often stands very still, waiting patiently before striking quickly at its prey.
From Old French “hairon” or “heron,” of Germanic origin, possibly related to Old High German “heigir,” a kind of heron. The exact roots are uncertain, but the word has long been tied to this water bird.
Herons hunt by doing almost nothing—they freeze like statues until the exact right moment to strike. Many cultures see them as symbols of patience and stillness because of this hunting style. Watching a heron can feel like watching time slow down at the edge of a pond.
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