Papuan Harrier
NamePapuan Harrier
Common NamePapuan Harrier
Scientific NameCircus spilothorax
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)120
Length (cm)53
Weight (g)650
Plumage DetailsPlumage varies by sex and age. Females and juveniles, like the bird pictured, typically have brown upperparts with streaked underparts, a pale rump, and barred flight feathers. Adult males are generally paler, often with greyish upperparts and white underparts, and distinct black wingtips.
Vocalization / CallGenerally quiet outside the breeding season. Calls include various alarm calls, often a rapid 'kek-kek-kek' or 'kew-kew-kew' during territorial disputes or when disturbed near the nest.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to New Guinea and some adjacent islands, including Biak, Yapen, and the D'Entrecasteaux Islands.
Identifying Featureslong wings, long tail, buoyant flight, low-level hunting, streaked underparts (females/juveniles), pale rump
Description
The Papuan Harrier is a medium-sized raptor known for its graceful, low flight over open wetlands and grasslands. It hunts by quartering the ground, often rocking from side to side on its long, broad wings while searching for prey.
