The white heron symbolizes the independence and wonder of nature, which directly supports the themes of Protecting the Natural World and the Individual’s Role in Conservation. The beautiful, white bird with his “steady sweep of wings and outstretched slender neck and crested head” is presented as a symbol and major character (678). The plot and tension center around this rare bird. When Sylvia sees the heron's perspective on the world from the top of the tree, she is inspired to refuse the hunter. She chooses the heron, and thus the preservation of nature, over the hunter’s desire to control it.

Alternatively, since Sylvia can be seen as making a spiritual journey as she climbs the great pine, the heron is a symbol of enlightenment, purity, and freedom. Sylvia becomes enlightened by the bird’s presence, for she realizes nature must be safeguarded from outside influence. She connects with the heron for his purity, matching her youthful innocence, and his freedom to soar through the world, untouched and untroubled, as she would like to be—tucked away in the woods and undisturbed by strangers.