Circus maillardi
The Reunion Harrier, Circus maillardi, is a distinctive medium-sized raptor endemic to the volcanic island of Reunion in the Indian Ocean. Males typically measure around 48-52 cm in length with a wingspan of 120-135 cm, displaying grey-brown upperparts, a striking white rump, and paler, often rufous-tinged underparts with dark wingtips. Females are slightly larger, reaching 50-55 cm with a wingspan of 125-140 cm, and are generally darker brown with streaked underparts, lacking the male's prom...
Found in a variety of open and semi-open habitats across Reunion Island, including high-altitude grasslands, heathlands, cultivated fields, and forest edges, from sea level up to 2,700 meters.
Feeds primarily on small birds, rodents, reptiles (especially lizards), amphibians, and large insects, hunted by low-level quartering flight.
Reunion Harriers are diurnal hunters, typically spending their days gliding low over vegetation with characteristic buoyant, rocking flight, scanning the ground for prey. They often roost communally in dense reeds or low scrub at night. Foraging involves slow, quartering flight, sometimes hoverin...
The Reunion Harrier, *Circus maillardi*, is strictly endemic to Reunion Island, a French overseas department in the western Indian Ocean. Its distribution covers virtually all suitable habitats across the island, from the coastal lowlands and cultivated agricultural areas, particularly sugarcane ...
Endangered
- The Reunion Harrier is one of the most endangered raptors in the world, with an estimated population of only 200-300 individuals. - It is entirely endemic to Reunion Island, meaning it is found nowhere else on Earth. - Unlike most harriers, which prefer extensive open wetlands, the Reunion Harr...