Marsh Harrier
Circus aeruginosus
UK Birds of Conservation Concern: Amber
Wingspan
115-130 cm
Sightings Logged
1
Legal Protection
Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981
Species Overview
The largest of the UK harriers, thriving in expansive lowland reedbeds, coastal saltmarshes, and fens. Known for its graceful, low-altitude patrolling flight.
Field Identification & Silhouette
Broad wings held in a shallow "V"; males feature a tri-coloured upperwing (brown, silver-grey, black wingtips); females are uniform dark chocolate-brown with cream-yellow crowns and throats.
Recent Observations
| Date & Time | Activity | Count | Coordinates | Field Notes | Observer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 Oct 2026, 13:00 | hunting | 1 | 51.16, -2.76 | Hunting over the marshes | Nick Harding |
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