Australasian Harrier (Circus approximans)
The Australasian Harrier, also known as the Swamp Harrier, is a large bird of prey found in Australia and New Zealand. It is one of three birds of prey in the Styx Catchment and is by far the most commonly seen bird in the area.
Physical Traits
The Australasian Harrier has a long, slim body with long slender legs and a long tail rounded at the tip. Its plumage can vary from tawny-brown to grey-brown, depending on its age and sex. The adult has a distinctive white rump, making it easy to identify from other birds of prey.
Life Span
The average life span for an Australasian Harrier is between 10 and 15 years in the wild.
Habitat
This species prefers open habitats such as wetlands, pastures, forest edges, tussock grasslands, and coastal areas. They are also often seen lazily quartering over these open areas while searching for food.
Diet
The diet of an Australasian Harrier consists mainly of small mammals such as rodents, rabbits, hares, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. They will also take advantage of carrion when available.
Reproduction
Australasian Harriers breed during spring or summer, depending on their location. The female builds a nest out of sticks near the ground or in low vegetation and lays up to five eggs which she incubates for around 30 days before hatching. The chicks fledge after about 45 days but remain dependent on their parents for several weeks afterward until they can fend for themselves.
Conservation Status
The conservation status of this species varies across its range. Still, overall it is considered to be secure, with populations stable or increasing in some areas due to land clearance providing more suitable habitat for them. However, they are still threatened by human activities such as hunting and habitat destruction, which can reduce their numbers if not appropriately managed.
Interesting Facts
- The Australian Harrier is sometimes called the “Kāhu,” which means “raptor” in Māori.
- This species has been observed using tools such as sticks to probe into crevices while searching for food items, such as insects or small mammals hiding inside them.
- It has been recorded flying at speeds up to 70 km/h while hunting its prey!
