Northern Harrier
Northern Harrier
100
1 week ago
Points:
100
The Northern Harrier is a medium-sized raptor widely distributed across North America, known for its owl-like facial disc and graceful, low flight over open grasslands and marshes. It's a superb hunter of small prey.
Where to spot
Widespread across North America, breeding in northern areas and wintering further south. It inhabits open grasslands, marshes, prairies, and agricultural fields.
How to spot
Look for its buoyant, rocking flight, with wings held in a V-shape. The white rump patch is a key identifying feature, especially visible from above. Listen for its distinctive alarm calls.
When to spot
Active throughout the day, often seen hunting in the morning and late afternoon. Best observed during migration or in wintering grounds where concentrations occur.
Where to spot
Widespread across North America, breeding in northern areas and wintering further south. It inhabits open grasslands, marshes, prairies, and agricultural fields.
How to spot
Look for its buoyant, rocking flight, with wings held in a V-shape. The white rump patch is a key identifying feature, especially visible from above. Listen for its distinctive alarm calls.
When to spot
Active throughout the day, often seen hunting in the morning and late afternoon. Best observed during migration or in wintering grounds where concentrations occur.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This harrier is one of the few raptors that hunts primarily by sound, using its unique facial disc to locate prey hidden in dense vegetation, much like an owl.
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