Based on 4,486 research-grade iNaturalist observations in Minnesota, Great Blue Heron is most often recorded in April; in Minnesota it behaves like a summer visitor / breeder. It ranks #13 among birds recorded in the state in our data.
Ardea herodias
Great Blue Heron in Minnesota by month
Bars show research-grade observations per month. They mix true seasonality with how often people are outdoors, so treat small numbers with caution.
Also seen in Minnesota in April
Mallard
Canada Goose
American Robin
Red-winged Blackbird
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Wood Duck
Song Sparrow
Wild Turkey
Places to look in Minnesota
National ForestChippewa National Forest
Botanical GardenUniversity of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
State ParkItasca State Park
State ParkJudge C. R. Magney State Park
National ForestSuperior National Forest
State ParkFlandrau State Park
FAQ
When does Great Blue Heron appear in Minnesota?
Mainly April–September, with the most records in April.
How common is Great Blue Heron in Minnesota?
It ranks #13 by number of iNaturalist observations among birds in Minnesota (4,486 records in our sample).