Montagu's Harrier vs Shikra

In short

Montagu's Harrier and Shikra can be distinguished by their size, structure, and habitat preferences. Montagu's Harrier is a slender, long-winged raptor often seen gliding over open fields, while the Shikra is a compact, broad-winged hawk found in wooded areas.

Identification tips

• Size and Shape: Look for the slender, long-winged profile of Montagu's Harrier compared to the compact, broad-winged Shikra.
• Plumage: Note the pale grey and black wingtips of male Montagu's Harrier versus the barred chest of the Shikra.
• Habitat: Consider the environment; open fields suggest Montagu's Harrier, while wooded areas suggest Shikra.
• Behavior: Observe flight patterns; gliding over fields indicates Montagu's Harrier, while short, fast flights through trees indicate Shikra.

Size

Montagu's Harrier is larger and more slender than the Shikra, with longer wings and tail.

Plumage

Montagu's Harrier males are pale grey with black wingtips, while females and juveniles are brown with a white rump. Shikras have a more uniform grey or brown plumage with a distinctive barred pattern on the chest.

Behaviour

Montagu's Harrier is often seen gliding low over open fields in search of prey, whereas the Shikra is more likely to be seen perched quietly in trees or making short, fast flights through wooded areas.

Habitat

Montagu's Harrier prefers open habitats such as grasslands and marshes, while the Shikra is typically found in wooded areas, including urban parks and gardens.

Voice

The Shikra is known for its high-pitched, repetitive calls, while Montagu's Harrier is generally silent outside of the breeding season.