Northern Harrier vs Montagu's Harrier

In short

The Northern Harrier and Montagu's Harrier are both slender, long-winged raptors that can be distinguished by their white rump patches and flight style. Northern Harriers are more common in North America, while Montagu's Harriers are found in Europe and parts of Asia. Both species exhibit sexual dimorphism, with females being larger and browner than males.

Identification tips

1. Look for the white rump patch in both species. 2. Observe the flight style: Northern Harriers have a more buoyant glide. 3. Note the habitat: Northern Harriers are in North America, Montagu's in Europe/Asia. 4. Check plumage: males are gray, females brown; Northern Harrier males have a whiter underside. 5. Consider size and structure: Montagu's Harriers are slightly smaller and more delicate.

Size

Both species are similar in size, with Montagu's Harrier being slightly smaller and more delicate in appearance.

Plumage

Northern Harriers have a distinctive white rump patch visible in flight, which is shared by Montagu's Harriers. Males of both species are gray with black wingtips, but Northern Harrier males have a more pronounced white underside. Females and juveniles of both species are brown, but Northern Harrier females often appear more robust.

Behaviour

Both species hunt by flying low over open fields, but Northern Harriers are known for their buoyant, gliding flight and reliance on both auditory and visual cues. Montagu's Harriers may appear more agile and are less dependent on auditory cues.

Habitat

Northern Harriers are found in tundra, grasslands, and marshes across North America. Montagu's Harriers prefer open country, including grasslands and agricultural fields, primarily in Europe and parts of Asia.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a primary distinguishing feature in the field for these species.