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Platte River Status: An uncommon migrant and local breeding species. Occurrence dates at the Mormon Island Crane Meadows, Hall County, extend from 8 May to 1 September. Tout (1947) recorded green-backed heron in Lincoln County during 15 April to 18 September. Rosche (1979) stated that breeding was probable in the lower North Platte River Valley, where this species is present 6 May to 4 June and 4 to 25 August.

Breeding Range: An uncommon and local breeding species in the Platte River Valley, primarily east of Lake McConaughy. Rare and local in the Rainwater Basin area of the Eastern Plain, casual elsewhere.

Breeding Population: The population in 1979-1980 was estimated at 1,082 breeding pairs. Our data indicate that green-backed heron is the most numerous heron in the study area.

Habitat: We found the highest mean nesting density in wetland (5.2 pairs/km²)followed by lowland forest (0.2 pairs km²). Green-backed heron is usually found associated with wooded borders of wetlands, and along rivers supporting small trees and shrubs. The only confirmed nest in the study area was found in a shelterbelt.

Effect of Habitat Alteration: Green-backed heron has benefited from the encroachment of woody vegetation within the river channels, but has been negatively impacted by the widespread drainage of basin wetlands in the rainwater basin area.

Nesting Data: Gates (1950) reported an active nest with 5 eggs about 6 m above the ground in a Russian olive tree on 5 June 1950. The nest was found about 3 km north of North Platte, Lincoln County. Lingle observed an adult green-backed heron on 12 July 1978 about 5.5 km east of North Platte. A closer search of the area yielded the discovery of a small stick nest about 3.8 m above the ground in a small willow tree. Although the nest was empty, it was probably a green-backed heron based on its size and the feathers present. Egg dates in Kansas range from 21 April to 20 June (Johnsgard 1979).