As the snow melts in fields and prairies, Northern Harriers return to hunt the freshly exposed rodents scuttering through the stubble.
These hawks don’t soar or perch while hunting; they take a more active approach. Northern Harriers (also known as Marsh Hawks or Ring-tailed Hawks) soar low over the contours of the land with their wings pointed up from their bodies in a vulture-like “V” shape.
It’s a distinctive hunting style that sets them apart from their neighboring hawks and falcons. Flying low blocks them from view, and their swift reaction time allows them to spot and swoop down on unsuspecting prey. You’ll rarely see this bird high in the sky; they typically eat their prey and build their nests on the ground and even choose perching spots on the ground or on low fences.
As you enjoy the early spring thaw, keep an eye out for these magnificent birds and the many others that are arriving every day! Pam Perry has lots of insights to share: Click “listen” to find out more.
Topics
- Introduction (0:00-0:24)
- Nuthatches and robins (0:24-4:05)
- Early migrators (4:05-4:37, 10:00-11:42)
- Northern Harriers (4:05-6:28)
- Horned Larks (6:28-9:32)
- Dark-eyed Juncos (9:32-10:00)
- Upcoming programs (11:42-13:54)
- Helping early season pollinators (13:54-14:50)
- Sandhill Cranes moving north (14:50-16:06)
- Northern Flickers (16:06-17:11)
- What wakes up a frog (or a chipmunk)? (17:11-18:49)
- Conclusion (18:49-19:54)
For more phenology, subscribe to our Season Watch Newsletter or visit the Season Watch Facebook page.
Funding for this project was provided by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR).