While most hawks are observed when they perch in trees, soar overhead or cruise through woodlands, northern harriers are usually encountered as they strafe grasslands and wetlands close to the ground. Easily identified by their owl-like face, long wings, long tail and white rump, these raptors often perch on the ground between sorties. Males have light gray dorsal plumage contrasting with a white chest and abdomen while females are brown and white with a streaked chest.
Northern harriers breed across Canada and the northern half of the U.S. and most winter across central and southern latitudes of the Continent. Nests are placed directly on the ground in dense vegetation; 4-6 eggs are typically laid. Adults hunt for rabbits, ground squirrels, rodents, songbirds, snakes, lizards and grasshoppers, depending on the season.
Though they are still relatively common, the population of northern harriers has been decreasing, primarily due to the drainage of wetlands and the cultivation of prairie grasslands. As with many other species, their fate depends on our commitment to protect and restore natural habitat.
