Cinereous Harrier
NameCinereous Harrier
Common NameCinereous Harrier
Scientific NameCircus cinereus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)102.5
Length (cm)45
Weight (g)450
Plumage DetailsAdult males have ash-grey upperparts, head, and breast, with a white belly and rufous barring on the flanks and undertail coverts. The wingtips are black. Females and juveniles are browner overall, with streaked underparts. All have bright yellow eyes, cere, and legs.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a rapid, chattering 'kek-kek-kek' call, especially during display flights or when agitated, and a high-pitched whistling sound.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound throughout much of South America, from Colombia and Venezuela south through the Andes to Tierra del Fuego, including parts of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Paraguay, Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador.
Identifying FeaturesMale's distinctive ash-grey plumage with rufous flank barring, Bright yellow eyes, cere, and legs, Long wings and tail, Characteristic low, buoyant flight over open terrain, Slender body shape
Description
The Cinereous Harrier is a medium-sized raptor characterized by its slender build and buoyant flight. Males display striking grey plumage, while females and juveniles are browner. They typically hunt low over open grasslands and wetlands, preying on small animals.
