The green-backed heron feeds on fish, frogs, insects, worms, lizards and salamanders, hunting early in the morning and late in the afternoon. Green-backed herons usually nest in shrubs or trees overhanging the water, but sometimes in orchards and groves away from any water source. The male selects the nesting site and starts building, and the female finishes the task. Outside nest diameter is 10-12 inches. Four to six oval, pale blue or green unmarked eggs are laid, which both sexes incubate for 20 days.
Some pairs raise two broods.
Green-backed herons rarely winter as far north as Pennsylvania. For years the birds had been killed for their long, white body plumes, used to feather women's hats. Strong conservation laws saved the species, which is repopulating its former range. A great egret's plumage is pure white, the bill yellow, and the legs and feet glossy black. Preferred foods are fish, small mammals, amphibians, and insects.