Are herons the most unconventionally attractive bird? They fly in a distinctively ungainly way – lolloping and lurching. With scrawny legs and body attached to a vast wingspan they look awkward. Grey herons (Ardea cinerea) have no dulcet tone, just prehistoric screeches. Yet there is charm to their black unruly feathers that stand out in a cowlick flick at the back of their head. As they wade through shallow water stalking prey their slow and mindful steps have the movement of Tai Chi.
Illustration: Alice Goodridge