Western Marsh Harrier

Circus aeruginosus

Genus · Harriers Family · Hawks, Eagles, and Kites

Observation tips Difficulty: EASY

Best time

🕒 Any

Activity

☀️ Diurnal

Best months

Observation habitat

Lake wetlandsMarsh

Scan large reedbeds. The female's bright yellow head is conspicuous even at a distance. Look for the characteristic 'V' wing position during glides.

♂ Male · ♀ Female

Stats

Wingspan115–145 cm

Weight400–800 g

Length48–56 cm

Lifespan wild5–16 yrs

Size

Nesting

Nest typePlatform

Clutch size3–6 eggs

Incubation31–38 days

Breeding months

Regional Status (Europe)

Least Concern (Europe)

IUCN Red List

MigrationPartial migratory

Social BehaviourSolitary

Diet: Carnivore

🐸Amphibians

🦅Birds

🥚Eggs

🦗Insects

🐭Mammals

Habitat

🛶 Lake wetlands🌊 Marine🌾 Marsh

✦ Fun Fact

Marsh Harriers are unusual because some males are polygynous. A single male may maintain two separate nests with two different females simultaneously.

About

The largest and most robust European harrier. It is an iconic bird of reedbeds and coastal marshes. It has broad wings and a long tail. It is frequently seen gliding low with wings held in a distinct 'V' shape. Many remain year-round in milder coastal areas. It is a successful predator whose population has recovered well due to wetland protection.

Behaviour

The Marsh Harrier hunts by 'quartering'—flying slowly back and forth at low altitude. It can eat waterbirds, small mammals, and frogs. It nests on a platform of reeds directly in the swamp. During courtship, pairs engage in 'sky-dancing' and mid-air food passes.