Eurasian Hobby

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Description

The Montagu’s harrier is a slender and elegant bird of prey, characterized by gray-blue plumage in adult males and streaked brown plumage in females and juveniles. It feeds mainly on small mammals and birds, which it captures with skillful aerial maneuvers. It prefers open habitats such as grasslands and cultivated fields, where it can easily find prey. In the spring, it builds nests well hidden among low vegetation. An interesting fact is its aerial dance: during courtship, the pair may perform spectacular acrobatic flights.

The Situation in Italian-Speaking Switzerland

In Italian-speaking Switzerland, the Montagu’s harrier can be seen during migration periods and especially in winter. The species does not nest in the region.

  • Circus cyaneus
  • Busard Saint-Martin
  • Kornweihe
  • Busard da San Martin
  • Hen Harrier
  • 48 cm
  • 97–118 cm

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