Pied Harrier
NamePied Harrier
Common NamePied Harrier
Scientific NameCircus melanoleucos
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)112.5
Length (cm)46.5
Weight (g)370
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a distinctive black head, neck, upper breast, back, and primary wing feathers. The rest of the body, including the belly, underwings, and secondary wing feathers, is pure white. The tail is grey. Females and immatures are predominantly brown with streaked underparts.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent outside the breeding season. During breeding, they may emit a rapid 'kek-kek-kek' or 'chi-chi-chi' call, especially when alarmed or during aerial displays.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across eastern Asia, including parts of Siberia, Mongolia, and northeastern China. It migrates south for the winter to Southeast Asia, India, and parts of Indonesia.
Identifying Featuresblack head and upper breast (male), white body and underwings (male), black primary wing feathers (male), grey tail (male), low-flying hunting style
Description
The Pied Harrier is a medium-sized raptor, with the male exhibiting a striking black and white plumage. It is known for its graceful, low-level flight over open habitats while hunting for prey. This species is migratory, breeding in East Asia and wintering in Southeast Asia.
