Mississippi Kite vs Northern Harrier

In short

The Mississippi Kite and Northern Harrier can be distinguished by their flight style and plumage. The Mississippi Kite is a graceful flier with a more uniform gray plumage, while the Northern Harrier is known for its low, buoyant flight and distinctive white rump patch.

Identification tips

1. Look for the white rump patch on the Northern Harrier, especially in flight. 2. Observe the flight style: graceful soaring for Mississippi Kite vs. low, buoyant flight for Northern Harrier. 3. Note the habitat: Mississippi Kites in urban or open woodlands, Northern Harriers in open fields and marshes. 4. Consider size: Northern Harriers are generally larger with longer wingspans.

Size

The Northern Harrier is generally larger than the Mississippi Kite, with a longer wingspan.

Plumage

Adult Mississippi Kites have a smooth gray plumage with darker wingtips, while Northern Harriers have a more varied plumage with a noticeable white rump patch. Juvenile Mississippi Kites can be more challenging to distinguish due to their streaked appearance.

Behaviour

Mississippi Kites soar gracefully and are known to be aggressive near their nests, often attacking intruders. Northern Harriers fly low over fields and marshes, using a mix of visual and auditory cues to hunt.

Habitat

Mississippi Kites are often found in open woodlands and urban areas, particularly in the Great Plains and the southwestern U.S. Northern Harriers prefer open habitats like grasslands, marshes, and agricultural fields.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a primary distinguishing factor, as both species are generally silent, though the Northern Harrier may give a 'kek-kek-kek' call.