While doing some birding at Greenfield Park in West Allis this morning I came across a Green Heron catching and eating an American Bullfrog. The bullfrog struggled to get away, and the 1st summer Green Heron struggled to kill it. Finally after a few minutes the Green Heron got control of it and down it went in one piece. Poor Bullfrog! Some of the other bird species present were families of Northern Flicker, Great Blue Heron, Belted Kingfisher and Green Heron. Also present, Gray Catbird, Cedar Waxwings, Wood Ducks, Pied-billed Grebes and some of the more common birds. Overall a quiet morning but nice to get out with other birders and photographers before the heat really set in. Mostly sunny with morning temps in the low 80’s with a light breeze at times. This action took place on one of the bigger islands there at the park. Images were taken on September 2, 2015.
The bullfrog is fighting to get away, kicking etc
The bullfrog is still trying to get away by kicking, etc
The bullfrog is still struggling and the heron just continually pinches the bullfrog
The bullfrog is tiring
Starting the process of swallowing the frog head first, I’m sure the adults showed them just how to do this at one time!
Gulp, poor frog!
No need for another meal for a while! Thanks for sharing.
What a tremendous sequence; amazing how methodical birds are in safely swallowing their prey.
I never would have guessed that a Green Heron could swallow that large a prey. Jim, your patience and craftsmanship pays off in not only beautiful, but instructive photo sequences.
I haven’t had a chance to comment lately so now is a good time to catch up! These are fantastic! As always, thank you for sharing — and from one of my favorite urban parks too!
Nice capture! A very nice picture story.
Great images as always. That was a decent sized bullfrog. Looked like a fair fight.
Wow! Who knew that they could eat something so big? Wonderful sequence of photos Jim.