MARSH
HARRIER
(circus aeruginosus)
In addition to the twin hazards of persecution and toxic
chemical attack endured by our other Raptors, the Marsh
Harrier has been particularly affected by habitat loss due
mainly to land drainage and it is now very rare.
The Marsh Harrier is a wetland bird, nesting in dense
reed-beds or other thick vegetation in shallow water. It
feeds mainly on other marsh birds including duck and
waders, but will also take small mammals. Prey is usually
caught by surprise as the Harrier quarters the ground,
using all available cover.
FACT
FILE:
LENGTH:
48 - 56cms (19 - 22 ins)WINGSPAN:
115 - I30cms (45 - 51 ins)WEIGHT:
0.4 - 0.8kg (14oz - llb 12oz)HABITAT:
Wetlands where disturbance is minimal. Large dense reedbeds
are essential for nesting.CONSERVATION
STATUS:
Approx. 100 pairs.