Pied Harrier Bird Details
Circus melanoleucos
Pied Harrier,Black-shouldered Kite, Black-shouldered Harrier;
Pahatai
Thomas Pennan, 1769
Accipitriformes (HAWKS, EAGLES and KITES)
Accipitridae
Circus
- Asia: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Turkey,
- Eastern Europe: Poland, Hungary, and Romania.
- Parts of Africa: Egypt and along the Nile Valley.
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Appearance :
The Pied Harrier is characterized by a distinctive coloration, with males exhibiting a mix of grey and white plumage and black markings, while females and juveniles are generally browner with streaked underparts. The wings are long and pointed, with a distinctive black shoulder patch in males.
Behaviour :
These birds are known for their graceful flight, often seen gliding low over open fields. They are typically solitary or seen in small groups. They perform elaborate courtship displays during the breeding season.
Habitat :
Pied Harriers are primarily found in open grasslands, wetlands, and agricultural fields. They prefer areas with tall grass or low vegetation that provides cover for hunting.
Diet :
Their diet mainly consists of small mammals, birds, and insects. They hunt by flying low over the ground and using their keen eyesight to spot prey.
Conservation Status :
Least Concern
Distribution :
They are found in parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. In India, they are primarily observed in northern and central regions during the winter months.
Population Size :
They are considered to be stable in many areas.
Life Span :
The average lifespan of a Pied Harrier in the wild is around 5 to 10 years, though some individuals may live longer.
Body And Tarsus:
- Body: The Pied Harrier has a slender and elongated body, adapted for soaring and gliding.
- Tarsus Length: Approximately 7 to 9 cm (2.8 to 3.5 inches)
Head And Bill :
- Head: The head is relatively small and has a distinctive shape, often featuring a contrasting color pattern.
- Bill: The bill is sharp and slightly hooked, ideal for catching prey.
- Bill Length: Around 3 to 4 cm (1.2 to 1.6 inches).
Length :
Typically between 45 to 55 cm (17.7 to 21.7 inches).
Neck :
The neck is relatively long, contributing to its ability to scan the ground for prey.
Size :
Medium-sized raptor, with males generally smaller than females.
Tail Details :
- Tail: The tail is long and slightly forked.
- Tail Length: Approximately 20 to 25 cm (7.9 to 9.8 inches).
- Feathers: Males typically having a more striking black-and-white pattern, while females and juveniles are browner with streaks.
Weight :
Weighs around 400 to 800 grams (14 to 28 ounces), with females being larger than males.
Wing :
The wings are long, pointed, and slightly curved, which is characteristic of harriers.
Wing Span :
Approximately 110 to 130 cm (43 to 51 inches).
Facial Feature :
The Pied Harrier has a relatively small head with distinct facial markings that vary between sexes.
Nest Details :
- Nest: The nest is usually constructed on the ground in tall grass or reed beds, providing cover from predators.
- Nest Made Up Of: Composed of a variety of materials, including grasses, reeds, and other plant materials. Sometimes it may incorporate feathers and other soft materials for insulation.
Breeding Season :
Typically occurs from March to June, depending on the region.
Nesting Season :
Nests are built during the breeding period, with peak activity in spring.
Egg Color :
Eggs are usually pale blue or greenish, often with darker speckles.
Egg Length :
Approximately 4 to 5 cm (1.6 to 2 inches).
Egg Width and Weight :
- Egg Width: Around 3 to 4 cm (1.2 to 1.6 inches).
- Egg Weight: Weighs about 30 to 40 grams (1.1 to 1.4 ounces) each.
Clutch Size :
Typically ranges from 3 to 6 eggs per clutch.
No. of Broods :
Usually 1 brood per breeding season, though occasionally they may attempt a second if the first clutch fails.
Incubation Period :
Lasts about 30 to 35 days.
Nestling Period :
Young remain in the nest for about 40 to 50 days before fledging.
Vocalization :
The vocalizations include a series of whistles and chirps, particularly during courtship and when alarmed.
Sex Demorphism :
males are generally more brightly colored (grey and white), while females are predominantly brown.
Migration Details :
- Migration Pattern: The Pied Harrier is partially migratory. Some populations migrate seasonally in search of food or suitable breeding grounds.
- Migration Period: Generally migrates from breeding grounds in Europe and Central Asia to wintering grounds in Africa and the Indian subcontinent. Migration typically occurs in late summer to early autumn (August to September) and returns in spring (March to April).
