The great blue heron is a common resident along North American coastlines. Yet the Ardea herodias cognata bangs species is endemic to the Galápagos. This elegant shore bird has a 5.5 to 6.5 foot wingspan and stands 4.5 feet. It is fun watching this master hunter glide stealthily along the water’s edge on its tall legs. Then its S-shaped neck lunges toward its target. This heron rarely misses spearing a meal with its sharp beak.