Réunion Harrier
NameRéunion Harrier
Common NameRéunion Harrier
Scientific NameCircus maillardi
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)127.5
Length (cm)52.5
Weight (g)700
Plumage DetailsAdult males have dark slate-grey to black upperparts, head, and breast, contrasting sharply with white underparts that feature prominent dark barring on the flanks. The underwing coverts are white with dark barring. Females are generally browner with streaked underparts. Juveniles resemble females but are darker.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of high-pitched whistles or yelps, often given during display flights or when disturbed near the nest.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, mountain
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to Réunion Island, a French overseas department in the Indian Ocean.
Identifying FeaturesEndemic to Réunion Island, Strong sexual dimorphism (dark male, browner female), Yellow eyes, cere, and legs, Distinct dark barring on white underparts of males, Typical harrier flight pattern (low over ground with wings held in a V)
Description
The Réunion Harrier is a medium-sized raptor endemic to Réunion Island. Males are distinctively dark grey to black above with white underparts and barred flanks, while females are browner. It hunts over open areas and forests, often flying low to the ground.
