46” considerable larger than Grey. Up to 20% larger with a longer neck, more massive bill and larger head

36-40”

Rufous

White

Adults have a narrower black lateral crown-stripe

Broad black lateral crown-stripe

Side to neck vinous or suffused with pinkish- lilac

Side of neck suffused white-grey. The head and cheek on Grey Heron is very white

Leading edge of the wing ‘epaulette’ - Rufous and black

White and black

Mottled rufous and white carpal coverts and primary covert bases

White, forming conspicuous ‘leading lights’ in flight

Usually brownier on upper parts and buffier below than Grey Heron, but always show some rufous thighs and shoulders.  Tend to have strongly mottled with whitish-buff sides to the neck

Plainer neck sides, with the front of the neck and upper breast more boldly streaked with dark gray to blackish