Harriers

Harriers are slender, long-winged raptors of the genus Circus, easily recognised by their distinctive low, quartering flight over open country as they hunt for small mammals and birds. They hold their wings in a characteristic shallow V-shape whilst gliding. Most species show sexual dimorphism, with males typically grey and females brown. In the UK, the Hen Harrier breeds in upland moorland and young forestry plantations, whilst the Marsh Harrier favours reedbeds and wetlands. The pale grey Montagu's Harrier is a rare summer visitor. All species possess an owl-like facial disc that aids sound location when hunting. Their long tails and legs distinguish them from other raptors in flight.