A life and one half rendering of the great blue heron, A WHISPER IN THE GRASS has a seven foot wingspan. This majestic wading bird is supported by a graceful clump of sea grass and is mounted on a column of granite. The Great blue Heron can be found in and around salt and fresh water environments living in colonies known as Heronries. Sixty-nine percent of new born herons die in the first year, with the oldest known to live up to 23 years. Herons can reach a cruising speed of 23 miles per hour and their diet consists of more than 71% fish captured by standing or walking slowly in the water.