Story: Birds of prey

Harrier in flight

Harrier in flight

Swamp harriers hold their wings in a shallow V when soaring. The wing tips have long finger-like feathers. The birds circle on rising thermal currents looking for prey. During courtship, males and females go soaring, which sometimes includes a sky dance – repeated dives while calling.

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Photograph by Matthew Wong

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How to cite this page:

Gerard Hutching, 'Birds of prey - Swamp harrier', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/9983/harrier-in-flight (accessed 20 April 2024)

Story by Gerard Hutching, published 24 Sep 2007, reviewed & revised 17 Feb 2015