Birds of Prey … Harrier Information and Species Listing … Harrier Photo Gallery
The African Marsh Harriers (Circus ranivorus) are – as suggested by their common name – birds of prey that occur naturally in Africa.
Distribution / Range
Their range stretches from southern, central and eastern Africa from South Africa north to Sudan. One isolated vagrant record exists from Nigeria. They are particularly common in the Okavango Delta in Botswana.
Their preferred habitats are wetland areas, especially those with reeds. But they will also visit grassland and cultivated farmland.
Description
The African Marsh Harriers measure 45 to 50 cm in length (including the tail).
The plumage is mostly brown with pale streaking on the head, chest and forewing. The abdomen and the thighs are rufous colored. The tail and flight feathers have dark barring.
Males and females look alike.
Juveniles have a dark brown plumage with a pale chest band and pale markings on the head.
Breeding / Nesting
This monogamous species typically builds its nest in reedbeds. The average clutch consists of 3 – 4 white eggs.
Diet / Feeding
They feed on small mammals, such as the Striped Mouse (Rhabdomys pumilio). They also take birds and frogs.
Calls / Vocalizations
These harriers are typically silent, except for the high-pitched, two-note display call.
Species Research by Sibylle Johnson
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