The Blue Heron (Ardea coerulea)

About this work

This etching shows a blue heron standing in shallow water. Its long legs and curved neck stand out against green plants. The bird’s blue and white feathers are carefully colored by hand. Mark Catesby made this in the 1730s as part of a book about American wildlife. He visited the colonies to draw plants and animals never seen in Europe before. The way he blends science and art makes this special. See how he uses etching to create fine lines and texture. For more old wildlife prints, check out Catesby, Mark.