The Marsh Harrier is a medium-sized bird of prey with distinctive plumage ranging from dark brown to reddish. Adults have a rounded tail and long, narrow wings. Males have a lighter-colored head and gray wing bars, while females are generally darker. It has an elegant, gliding flight and is often seen patrolling wetlands. It feeds primarily on small mammals, birds, and amphibians. The species is migratory, wintering in Africa and returning to Europe to nest. It prefers habitats such as marshes, reed beds, and lakes. In the spring, it builds nests on the ground among dense vegetation.