Definition

1. Noun:
   • A bird of prey of the harrier family (Circus) that typically inhabits and hunts over marshes and wetlands: The marsh harrier is a medium-sized raptor characterized by its long wings and tail, and its low, gliding flight over open ground. It is native to the Old World (Europe, Asia, Africa).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • We spotted a marsh harrier hunting over the reed beds.
  • The conservation of wetlands is crucial for the survival of the marsh harrier.

Advanced Usage

• "Western marsh harrier" (Circus aeruginosus): The most common and widespread species in Europe and western Asia.
  • The western marsh harrier is often seen performing its dramatic sky-dancing courtship display.
• "Eastern marsh harrier" (Circus spilonotus): A species found in eastern Asia.
  • The eastern marsh harrier can be distinguished by its more heavily streaked plumage.

Variants and Related Words

• Harrier (n): The broader family of birds of prey (genus ) known for their low, quartering flight over open country. All marsh harriers are a type of harrier.
• Hen harrier (n): A related species of harrier (Circus cyaneus) that often hunts over moorland and fields.
• Montagu's harrier (n): Another related harrier species (Circus pygargus).

Synonyms

• Circus aeruginosus: The scientific name for the Western/Eurasian marsh harrier.
• Marsh hawk (Note: In North America, "marsh hawk" is a historical name for the Northern Harrier, , which is a different, though ecologically similar, species).

Related Phrases

• "To quarter a marsh": A phrase describing the hunting flight pattern characteristic of harriers, including the marsh harrier, as they fly low and systematically back and forth over an area.
  • The bird quartered the marsh, searching for voles and other small prey.

Noun

1. Old World harrier frequenting marshy regions