Green Heron vs Great Blue Heron

In short

The Green Heron is much smaller and more compact than the Great Blue Heron, with a stockier build and shorter neck. The Great Blue Heron is significantly larger, with a long neck and legs, making it more easily distinguishable in the field.

Identification tips

1. Look for size: the Great Blue Heron is much larger. 2. Note the neck length: the Great Blue Heron has a long neck, while the Green Heron has a shorter, stockier neck. 3. Observe plumage: the Green Heron is darker and more uniform, while the Great Blue Heron has a bluish-gray body with a white face and dark crown.

Size

The Green Heron is much smaller and more compact, while the Great Blue Heron is larger with a long neck and legs.

Plumage

The Green Heron has a darker, more uniform plumage with a greenish back and chestnut neck, whereas the Great Blue Heron typically has a bluish-gray body with a contrasting white face and dark crown.