Dark Grey Heron (1 Viewer)

[Foxy]

I photographed this Grey Heron at Porthgwarra, Cornwall on 1st October '23 when the seawatching was truly dreadful. It appears to be very dark, have a very long neck and extensive black cap and it got me musing on why it is a Grey Heron and not a Great Blue Heron. I looked at the literature on line and discovered that it isn't that great. can anyone point me in the direction of a good site so that when I do find a Great Blue Heron I will know it!
Thanks

 

[foresttwitcher]

See Opus item under similar species for some basic differences: Grey Heron - BirdForum Opus

 

[Foxy]

Thanks!

 

[njlarsen]

In this image there is a white spot on the wing which would be rufous on the GBHe. In flight there are actually two areas which differ like that. The rufous on the thighs when seen well is also a pointer. Notice that young GBHe may be less solidly colored on the thighs.
Niels

 

[Butty]

It appears to be very dark

Because it's an immature.

 

[Foxy]

Because it's an immature.

I have seen lots of immatures but from memory none as dark as that one

 

[Butty]

Looks normal to me. The photo's about ⅓ stop underexposed (no offence).

 

[Foxy]

Looks normal to me. The photo's about ⅓ stop underexposed (no offence).

None taken!

 

[cerw8385]

In addition to the information provided on the Opus, I think this article provides even more detail: https://frank.itlab.us/TBL/Harvesting/Herons/Birding0202p24-33.pdf
It is from a North American perspective, but it should still be helpful for you. I'd imagine only members of the race Herodias would be seen in England.