Long-winged Harrier vs Cinereous Harrier

In short

The Long-winged Harrier and Cinereous Harrier are both medium-sized raptors with similar silhouettes, but they can be distinguished by their plumage and habitat preferences. The Long-winged Harrier is more uniformly colored, while the Cinereous Harrier shows more contrast, particularly in males.

Identification tips

1. Plumage contrast: Look for the more contrasting black-and-white pattern in male Cinereous Harriers. 2. Habitat: Consider the habitat; Long-winged Harriers prefer wetter areas. 3. Flight pattern: Observe the flight; both have a similar low, gliding flight typical of harriers.

Size

Both species are similar in size, with long wings and tails typical of harriers.

Plumage

Long-winged Harrier is generally more uniformly colored with less contrast between the upperparts and underparts. In contrast, the Cinereous Harrier, particularly the male, has a more contrasting plumage with a distinct black-and-white pattern. Females of both species are more similar, but the Cinereous Harrier may show more contrast in the wings.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit typical harrier behavior, such as low, gliding flight over open areas. There are no significant behavioral differences noted.

Habitat

Long-winged Harrier is often found in marshes and wet grasslands, while the Cinereous Harrier is more associated with open grasslands and steppes.