Rufous-winged Buzzard vs Eastern Marsh Harrier
Butastur liventer versus Circus spilonotus
Play a quiz with Rufous-winged Buzzard and Eastern Marsh Harrier
Rufous-winged Buzzard
Eastern Marsh Harrier
In short
The Rufous-winged Buzzard is best distinguished from the Eastern Marsh Harrier by its compact build and rufous wing markings, while the harrier is more slender with longer wings and tail. Habitat preference is also a key difference, with the buzzard favoring wooded areas and the harrier typically found in open marshlands.
Identification tips
Look for the Rufous-winged Buzzard's rufous wing markings and compact build in wooded habitats. In contrast, the Eastern Marsh Harrier's larger size and presence in open marshlands are key identifiers.
Size
The Eastern Marsh Harrier is generally larger and more slender than the Rufous-winged Buzzard.
Plumage
Rufous-winged Buzzard has distinctive rufous markings on its wings, whereas the Eastern Marsh Harrier lacks these and has a more uniform plumage.
Habitat
Rufous-winged Buzzard is typically found in wooded areas, while Eastern Marsh Harrier is associated with open marshlands.
Rufous-winged Buzzard · Eastern Marsh Harrier · My Tricky Birds