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Hen
Harrier
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Taken at Balranald
on 6th July 2009 using Nikon D40X with Nikon 300 mm zoom lens.
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| Hen Harrier. |
| Species
: Order: Family: Local names: |
Circus cyaneus. Accipitriformes. Accipitridae. |
| Site Of Nest: Food: Plumage: Breeding Period: Eggs: |
The nest is built
on the ground or on a mound of dirt or vegetation. Nests are made of
sticks and are lined inside with grass and leaves Preferred prey species can include voles, rats and ground squirrels. Up to 95% of the diet comprises small mammals. However, birds are hunted with some regularity as well, especially by males. Preferred avian prey include passerines of open country (i.e. sparrows, larks, pipits), small shorebirds and the young of waterfowl and galliforms. Supplementing the diet occasionally are amphibians (especially frogs), reptiles and insects Larger prey, such as rabbits and adult ducks are taken sometimes and harriers have been known to subdue these by drowning them underwater. Male: Mainly grey above and white below except for the upper breast, which is grey like the upperparts, and the rump, which is white; the wings are grey with black wingtips. Female: Brown above with white upper tail coverts, hence females, and the similar juveniles, are often called "ringtails". Their underparts are buff streaked with brown. March - June 4 - 8 whitish |
| Voice: |