Circus assimilis
The Spotted Harrier (*Circus assimilis*) is a medium-sized, slender raptor native to Australia and parts of Southeast Asia. It is easily recognized by its distinctive grey upperparts, rich rufous underparts heavily spotted with white, especially on the belly and undertail coverts. Adults measure 50-60 cm in length, boast a wingspan of 115-145 cm, and weigh between 320-800g. Key identification features include its long, slender yellow legs, a relatively small head with a prominent facial disc,...
Primarily inhabits open grasslands, savannas, sparse woodlands, and agricultural areas, generally at low to moderate elevations.
Consists mainly of small to medium-sized mammals (e.g., rabbits, rodents), birds (e.g., quail, larks), reptiles (e.g., lizards, snakes), and large insects (e.g., grasshoppers), primarily caught by pouncing from low-level flight.
Diurnal, the Spotted Harrier is an active hunter throughout the day, often seen roosting solitarily in trees. Its distinctive foraging strategy involves quartering low over open ground, scanning for prey with a characteristic rocking, buoyant flight before making a swift pounce. While generally s...
The Spotted Harrier is primarily distributed across mainland Australia, inhabiting most areas except for the densest coastal forests and alpine regions. Its range extends northwards into parts of New Guinea, encompassing the southern lowlands and some associated islands. Isolated populations are ...
Least Concern
- The Spotted Harrier's flight is famously described as "buoyant" or "rocking," distinguishing it from other raptors with its graceful, almost butterfly-like movements. - Despite being a raptor, it possesses a prominent facial disc, similar to owls, which aids in channeling sound to its ears, sig...