Western Marsh Harrier

9 hours ago door Robert de Roos

Points: 25

Spotted

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

How to spot

When to spot

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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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