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Great blue herons sit on their nests in sycamore trees at Crow's Nest. These birds are especially sensitive to human disturbances. |
I am writing regarding a recent article about a hike that the Friends of the Rappahannock led to a protected great blue heron nesting site owned by the Northern Virginia Conservation Trust ["Herons using Crow's Nest for their own," April 10].
The article clearly emphasized the threats to the herons posed by nearby development plans. It did a good job showcasing how special the area is and why it should be protected.
I would like to add a key piece of information about the special needs of these beautiful birds.
Great blue herons are extremely sensitive to any human disturbance while they are breeding, nesting, and raising their young.
Human disturbance near active heronries has been associated with low productivity and site abandonment, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recommends that during the nesting season, human activity be minimized within a quarter-mile of the nests.
Studies have shown that human intruders can alarm young herons and cause them to leave the nest and fall to the ground, where they die from starvation or predation.
We can help herons survive best by simply giving them privacy to raise their young; that is why NVCT's management plan prohibits unauthorized visitors at all times.
During certain times of the year, individuals and groups may seek written permission from NVCT to visit, but even then everyone must be accompanied by an approved guide.
The April hike will not be repeated next year, but NVCT is working with the Friends of the Rappahannock on another event for this coming winter.
Whitney Bailey
Annandale
The writer is director of stewardship and adventures in conservation for the Northern Virginia Conservation Trust.
