Western Marsh Harrier
Western Marsh Harrier
25
1 day ago
L
+8
The Western Marsh Harrier is a large, slender raptor strongly associated with wetlands, reedbeds, and marshes. It flies with characteristic slow, buoyant wing beats, often holding its wings in a shallow 'V' shape. This agile hunter preys on small birds, mammals, and amphibians.
Where to spot
Found across Europe, North Africa, and Central Asia, primarily in extensive wetlands, reedbeds, marshes, and even agricultural fields with ditches. Northern populations migrate to Africa and South Asia for the winter.
How to spot
Look for its long, broad wings held in a shallow dihedral ('V' shape) during its characteristic low, gliding flight over reedbeds. Males have brown upperparts with grey flight feathers and a pale head; females are darker brown with a creamy cap and throat.
When to spot
Present on breeding grounds from spring to autumn. Migration periods in spring (March-April) and autumn (September-October) offer excellent opportunities to see them along coastlines and over wetlands. Resident year-round in warmer parts of its range.
Where to spot
Found across Europe, North Africa, and Central Asia, primarily in extensive wetlands, reedbeds, marshes, and even agricultural fields with ditches. Northern populations migrate to Africa and South Asia for the winter.
How to spot
Look for its long, broad wings held in a shallow dihedral ('V' shape) during its characteristic low, gliding flight over reedbeds. Males have brown upperparts with grey flight feathers and a pale head; females are darker brown with a creamy cap and throat.
When to spot
Present on breeding grounds from spring to autumn. Migration periods in spring (March-April) and autumn (September-October) offer excellent opportunities to see them along coastlines and over wetlands. Resident year-round in warmer parts of its range.
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Marsh Harriers have a unique facial disc of feathers around their eyes, similar to owls, which helps them funnel sound to their ears, aiding in hunting prey hidden in dense vegetation.
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Spotted
- Recently spotted
- 20650 (Seen in the last 3 months)
- Last spotted
- 1 day ago
Monthly observations
35 observations
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