What am I?
The largest of the harriers, the marsh harrier is an imposing sight as it glides above reedbeds and saltmarsh.
Marsh Harrier
Marsh Harrier
Conservation Status: 🟠Amber
How to Identify Me
It has a more distinctive ‘V’ shape to its wings when gliding which helps distinguish harriers from other birds of prey and a marsh harrier is distinctive thanks to it’s larger size and broad wings. Females are chocolate brown and males are a more mottled appearance of grey, black and brown.
How Can You Help Me?
Despite facing significant declines, recent conversation efforts have bolstered marsh harrier numbers across the country, particularly in East Anglia.
They’re still at significant risk and so are a Schedule 1 listed species on The Wildlife and Countryside Act meaning they have full protection from any form of disturbance.
Please do all you can to give these birds space when you see them and report any illegal disturbance or harm to the relevant authorities.