Western Europe Birds & Birding (#26/52): From the Highland Willow Scrub of Scotland to the Aegean Islands within the Sea of Crete, Western Europe is house to over 800 resident, migratory and vagrant birds. From songbirds to gamebirds and from waterfowl to raptors, you will discover birds just about in each nook and cranny of this stunning space. *All photos showcased on this weblog collection had been taken and edited by me.
A Reflections of the Pure World Weblog Put up Sequence by Jim Acquire
The Western Marsh Harrier (Circus aeruginosus) is a chic raptor that graces wetlands with its presence, preying on small creatures whereas sustaining a steady standing within the pure world.
Bodily Traits:
The Western Marsh Harrier is a medium-sized raptor with a wingspan starting from 110 to 130 centimeters. Its plumage displays sexual dimorphism:
- Male: Males have putting chestnut-brown upperparts, a pale head, and a particular white rump. Their underparts are pale grey with streaks.
- Feminine: Females are bigger and exhibit a darker coloration. Their upperparts are brown, and their underparts are streaked with buff.
- In flight, each sexes show a attribute V-shaped silhouette, with lengthy wings and an extended tail.
Eating regimen:
The Western Marsh Harrier primarily feeds on small mammals, birds, and amphibians. Its weight loss program contains:
- Rodents: Resembling voles and mice.
- Birds: Particularly younger waterfowl and passerines.
- Amphibians: Frogs and toads.
It hunts by gliding low over marshes and wetlands, scanning the bottom for prey.
Abundance and Distribution:
This harrier species prefers wetland habitats, together with marshes, reed beds, and coastal areas. Its distribution spans throughout:
- Europe: From the Iberian Peninsula to Scandinavia.
- Asia: Together with components of Russia, Central Asia, and the Indian subcontinent.
- Africa: Notably in northern Africa.
The Western Marsh Harrier is a migrant chicken, with populations shifting south throughout winter.
IUCN Purple Checklist Standing:
Based on the IUCN Purple Checklist of Threatened Species, the Western Marsh Harrier is at the moment assessed as Least Concern. Nevertheless, it’s important to observe its habitat high quality and inhabitants tendencies to make sure its conservation.
For extra data, you may discover the IUCN Purple Checklist and study in regards to the conservation standing of assorted species.
WESTERN MARSH HARRIER WAS LIFER #1057
