Marsh Harriers

 Identify It >   Bird Section >   Birds of Prey Section >   Marsh Harriers >

Scientific name:  Circus aeruginosus

Size:  Approx 55cm.  Wingspan up to 140cm

Distribution:  The largest numbers of Marsh Harriers are found in the east of England, but they can be seen in other parts of the UK, especially coastal areas

Months seen:  All year round

Life Span:  Up to 13 years, but typically around 6 years (source BTO)

Habitat:  Farmland and wetlands

Food:  Mostly mice, voles and small water birds

Special features:  Male Marsh Harriers have greyish plumage on the middle section of the wings, and black 'fingered' wing tips.  The breast and belly are a pale brown colour, as are the shoulders and back.  The head and tail are a greyish colour.  Female Marsh Harriers have mostly brown plumage but with cream coloured plumage on the top of the head.  The females are larger than males.  The legs in both sexes are yellow.

Marsh Harriers are slightly larger than Buzzards, but not as rotund in the body.  In flight the Marsh Harrier makes a slight 'V' shape with its raised wings, whereas the Buzzard keeps its wings flat.

Related Pages

• UK Safari Bird of Prey Section
• UK Safari Bird Section
• What's Out Now?