Watford town centre’s resident heron has returned after a yearlong sabbatical while his home, the pond, was being revamped.

The bird, fondly dubbed Hannibal for his penchant of devouring the water feature’s fish, deserted his usual digs while the pond was being refurbished over the last year.

Work rebuilding the pond was completed in June and the fish were re-introduced shortly after.

The heron was spotted inspecting new home, which now includes a bridge, this morning.