It's hard to pass a pasture in Texas without seeing egrets, and the same for tanks and ponds with herons. Despite their seemingly pervasive presence, herons and egrets are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. That means you cannot kill or capture these birds and habitat management in active rookeries is also prohibited. The list of protected species include:

Great blue heron
Great egret
Snowy egret
Little blue heron
Cattle egret
Green heron
Black-crowned night-heron
Yellow-crowned night-heron

For larger fisheries, these birds aren't a great threat to your fish population. But for smaller, ponds they can seriously diminish your population. Effective methods of control include:

Habitat modification: These birds wade in shallow water, so if you can, increase the slope of your fishery to minimize the area with depths 2 feet or less.

Loud noises: Air or propane cannons can be installed to go off at various intervals to startle and scare the birds away. These devices are designed to mimic gunshots to run the birds off without harm.

Visual deterrents: To scare off herons and egrets, consider using effigies of other herons, predators, or competitive species, such as Alligator or Swan Decoys. These floating devices work better than stationary decoys since the movement of the water makes them look more lifelike. You can also use eyespot balloons and even reflective tape.

Pond Management Planning Guide for Bass Fisheries

Goal Assessment