Heron vs. Crane: A Comparison of Long-legged Birds

The heron vs. crane debate might sound like something only birdwatchers care about, but knowing the difference is key for anyone who loves wildlife or spends time near wetlands.

These long-legged wading birds often get lumped together, yet they’re different birds in lineage, anatomy, and behavior.

If you've ever spotted a tall bird in the shallows and wondered if it's a heron or a crane, this guide clears up the confusion.

Different Families, Different Orders

Both herons and cranes belong to the class Aves, but not to the same order; herons are classified under the order Pelecaniformes, while cranes belong to the order Gruiformes. Herons then fall under the family Ardeidae, which also includes egrets and bitterns. Cranes are part of the family Gruidae.

Though they share environments and similar body plans — think long necks, long legs, and pointed bills — they’re not closely related and don't even belong to the same genus.

Neck Posture in Flight

Sandhill Cranes flying — Sandhill cranes. Marcia Straub / Getty Images

One of the easiest ways to tell them apart is how they fly. Cranes fly with their necks outstretched, while herons curve theirs back in an S-shape.

This trait makes cranes resemble geese in the air, while herons look like flying question marks.

Nesting and Behavior

Herons nest in trees or shrubs near shallow waters, often in colonies called heronries. Most herons hunt solo, stalking small fish, frogs, and other aquatic animals.

In contrast, crane species like the sandhill cranes or whooping crane often mate for life and are known for group dances and communal roosting. They’re omnivores, eating everything from plant matter to insects and small animals.

Body Shape and Size

While both bird types come in various sizes, cranes are generally bulkier with shorter bills. Herons tend to have more slender bodies and longer, spear-like beaks ideal for hunting.

The goliath heron, the largest of the heron family, can reach 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall, while the wattled crane is one of the tallest crane species, with a more robust frame.

Species You Might Confuse

Some herons and egrets get mistaken for cranes due to color or size.

The great blue heron and grey heron are both towering waders with gray plumage.
The great white heron is a pale variant of the blue heron, not to be confused with the great egret or snowy egret.
The juvenile little blue heron even looks like a white egret until it matures.

Storks and cranes, such as the marabou stork or white stork, are another category of tall, long-necked birds that can complicate wildlife sighting IDs. However, storks and cranes belong to entirely different families.

To differentiate herons, cranes, and other birds, look at more than just color or size. Consider bill shape, neck position, behavior, and habitat. Whether you're admiring a reddish egret, a night heron, or a dancing demoiselle crane, understanding these differences enriches your birdwatching experience.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.