My photos do not do justice to this magnificent and somewhat stately bird. The Lumix has been tested to its limits but I couldn’t resist posting the photos anyway. Although this is certainly not the first sighting of Great-billed Heron on our property it’s presence always generates excitement and I am happy to have some photographic record. I acknowledge there is room for improvement!
Yesterday’s guests saw this Heron in a couple of locations during their morning visit . In the afternoon I walked to the hide and was surprised to find the GBH in full view on the edge of one of the islands. I watched it for some time before risking a return to the house for the camera. Unfortunately the bird moved to the far end of Graham’s pond, where we have recently slashed some Para grass – not really the background I would have chosen.
The weather is starting to warm up and without any recent rain the ponds are drying up quite rapidly which means there are greater areas of shallow water with a concentrated food source so there are quite a few opportunistic birds enjoying some easy meals.
Allen
Barbara
Wild Wings & Swampy Things 
Great find.
Nothing wrong with your photos. Well and truly identifiable.
Besides, I would report something as unusual as that, with ANY photograph.
Cheers
Denis
Thank you for your encouragement Denis, it is always a thrill to see GBH here.
A beautiful bird and good that you got some photos. It’s seems to be always the way that the bird is in the perfect position when the camera is not!
Although I was disappointed that the bird moved, it didn’t fly far so I was lucky.
Great to see a bird out in the open and not hidden deep in creek growth or mangroves.
Yes Tony, I was very surprised to see it right out in the open – great to have a chance to see the subtle colouring of the feathers in sunlight.
G’day Barbara,
What a wonderful bird to visit your ponds. The photos are great.
Gouldiae
Thanks Gouldiae – it is exciting to see a GBH because they can be rather elusive.