We've been watching this nest all month, first we thought there were two chicks, then three and now we definitely count four chicks (plus a parent) and they are growing really fast. The nest is getting so crowded the parents don't spend much time in it, they perch on the edge or a nearby branch and watch from a distance. Great Blue Heron facts: Young Great Blue Herons emerge from the eggs with a downy coat and their eyes open, but they aren’t able to move about and must be fed by their parents. They grow to adult size in about six weeks. By about eight weeks old, the young birds start to fly. At 10 weeks, they leave the nest – and their parents – for good. ~ Seattle Audubon Society

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~CAUTION~
Please use caution if you see or know of a location where herons are nesting. To prevent disturbing herons during the nesting season check the provincial or state wildlife guidelines concerning access to heron rookeries. If access is permitted, follow the guidelines carefully and use high-powered binoculars or spotting scopes to observe the herons and longer lenses when photographing them.