African Marsh Harrier
NameAfrican Marsh Harrier
Common NameAfrican Marsh Harrier
Scientific NameCircus ranivorus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)125
Length (cm)47
Weight (g)460
Plumage DetailsAdults are generally dark brown above, with streaked rufous-brown underparts. The head and neck are often paler, streaked with dark brown. The flight feathers can show some barring, and the underwing coverts are rufous. The eyes are yellow, and the cere and legs are also yellow.
Vocalization / CallTypically silent outside the breeding season. During breeding, calls include a rapid 'kek-kek-kek' or 'kyew-kyew-kyew' alarm call, and a high-pitched 'pee-oo' or 'kwee-oo' during display.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across sub-Saharan Africa, primarily in eastern and southern Africa, with a fragmented distribution.
Identifying FeaturesSlender body and long yellow legs, Dark brown plumage with streaking, especially on underparts, Yellow eyes, Buoyant flight with wings held in a shallow V-shape, Prefers marshy and wetland habitats
Description
A medium-sized raptor with a slender body and long yellow legs, typically found hunting over wetlands and grasslands. It exhibits a characteristic buoyant flight with wings held in a shallow V-shape while soaring.
