Northern Harrier
Last Review/Updated: May 31, 2002
Circus cyaneus
The northern harrier (formerly "marsh hawk") is common in and around marshes and wet meadows. This slim hawk is most easily recognized by a prominent white rump patch. Unlike the rest of the hawk family, the male and female northern harriers differ noticeably in their plumage. The male of this species has pale grey upperparts and throat, whereas the female plumage is dark grey-brown blotched with rust. Both have cream to white underparts lightly streaked with brown, a banded tail, and a white rump patch. When in flight the wings are tilted slightly upwards. The northern harrier is about 50 cm (20 in.) long.
The northern harrier breeds throughout most of North America. It winters in the southern states of Central America. In Alberta, the harrier is found in most life zones, being most common in the prairie and parkland.
Nests of reeds and grasses are built on the ground, usually in a protective cover of tall grasses or shrubs. Four to 6 eggs are laid annually.
When hunting for mice, large insects, and ground squirrels, the northern harrier glides low over fields and marshes. While gliding, this hawk tilts from side to side, giving it an unsteady appearance.
