Circus – Harriers

Most members in this genus look fierce because supraorbital ridges surround their eyes with typically hooked beaks, broad wings, and strong legs. The birds in this genus have adapted distinct physical features according to their lifestyles. Their plumage is best for hiding in plain sight in the forest.

Migration between wintering and breeding grounds is often observed in almost all accipitrids. The paler underparts, followed by barred underwings, are patterned in a way that helps these birds camouflage. The females are larger than males, exhibiting reversed sexual size dimorphism. Like other Raptors, they rely heavily on trees for roosting, perching, hunting, and nesting.