Heronry

/ˈhɛrənri/ noun

Definition

A breeding colony or nesting ground where herons gather to build nests and raise young.

Etymology

Formed from 'heron' plus '-ry,' a Middle English suffix derived from Old French that creates nouns indicating places or practices (also seen in 'archery,' 'nursery,' 'brewery').

Kelly Says

Some heronries have been occupied for hundreds of years—one in England has been continuously used since medieval times—and herons return faithfully each breeding season, making them incredible examples of animal site fidelity.

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