“Creativity is the Blue Heron within us waiting to fly; through her imagination, all things become possible.”

― Nadia Janice Brown

 In Greek myths, Heron is God’s messenger, so it was wrong to harm one in any way as it brought terrible luck. Stories of Athena speak of a Heron as one of Her messengers. Heron also represents honor and virtue. Throughout Greek Art, Heron plays a role in the on-going struggle between good and evil; the balance between these two concepts has a substantial influence on the symbolism and meaning of Heron spiritually. 

Egyptians had a profound relationship with Heron. A God, known as Bennu, is a large red and gold Heron. One of the oldest cities in Egypt, Heliopolis, held this Bird as sacred. Bennu created light, which may be why Heliopolis became known as the City of the Sun. Bennu has sometimes been related to Ra or Osiris reborn into a new life. In creation stories, it is the call of a Heron that heralded the beginning of creation. To this day, a double-headed Heron represents prosperity in Egypt.

 While they are mostly found in wetlands feasting on a diet of fish, amphibians, and reptiles, heron symbolism is surrounded by an aura of nobility and style. This magnificent bird reminds us of the importance of showing grace under pressure for it gives us the capacity to think clearly, act timely, and effectively get things done. 

The Heron has ties to the Water Element that encourages us to flow with the energies around us. We do not need to struggle with nature but instead cooperate with it. There is no question the Heron is lovely and graceful. It’s hard not to be inspired by such a marvelous, stunning bird.

Other keywords and characteristics associated with Heron include Autonomy, calm, detachment, keen-mindedness, individuality, gallantry, meditation, nobility, peace, serendipity, solitude, stability, steadfastness, tact, tenacity, reclusiveness, and willpower.

 Typically seen quietly feeding near the edges of the water, the heron’s presence indicates how we constantly long for some peace and calm. They appear to help us realize that to reach our full potential and identify new opportunities in our lives, we also need to have these qualities within. 

Heron Spirit Animal may be calling you to a time of thinking deeply about your life and where you are going; this effort not only offers a chance to ground but increases our wisdom about our place and purpose. If you find yourself uncomfortable around someone or in a situation, ask yourself why. Sometimes it’s an instinctual warning. Other times that person or setting is challenging some of your perspectives or habits.

Once you have a good grasp of your true self, Heron challenges you to take the next step. Prepare to walk to the beat of your figurative drummer. You can love your peers and appreciate their company while also staying on track. Being a little unconventional and individualistic is ok. This personal transformation doesn’t lock people out. Your family and friends still find comfort and acceptance in your company.

 The heron’s swift call to attack should remind us that it is important to take action when we see an opportunity so we can continue to progress and level up in life. When we pass on opportunities for fear of not being comfortable with change, we can miss out on a lot! More importantly, remaining in the same place with the same habits creates a stagnant environment that does not serve our higher purpose. 

These regal birds remind us that though we may be going through some tough times, our difficulties shouldn’t stop us from inspiring others to do the little things to make a big difference.

Finally, Heron counsels you on an opportunity. This Spirit Animal is forbearing and persistent. You need not always wait for your ship to come in. Swim to it!