Hen Harrier

Scientific Name: Circus cyaneus

Population Estimate: 1.3M, Least Concern status

Range / Habitat: The northern harrier is the most northerly breeding and one of the most widespread of all harrier species, occurring across much of North America, Europe and Asia. In North America, the subspecies Circus cyaneus hudsonius can be found from Alaska and Canada south to Mexico, wintering as far south as Central or South America and the Caribbean.

Field Notes: It is 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. The female is brown above with white upper tail coverts, hence females, and the similar juveniles, are often called "ringtails". Their underparts are buff streaked with brown.

Personal Notes: Also known as Northern Harrier in the US.