>>>>>>>> Fascinating information on harrier prey, Tweets.

I've wondered, watching the low and slow hunting cruise of harriers, why
they seemed to be getting so much respect. Everything along the coast line
rises up in alarm, more so than for a bald eagle. They have delicate little
feet, but apparently get the job done. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

Having spent many wonderful hours watching Harriers:

Consider the Harrier's hunting strategy. He floats very low over grassy-marshy
land, "sectioning" the area, like an Civil Air Patrol search pattern. Typically
the grass/brush is high, interrupted by open areas of water, mud, or short
grass.

To the prey, the Harrier is invisible until he "pops" over the top of the grass.
Then it's too late for the prey to do anything. It's a great strategy in that
environment - stealth bomber, because he's so low.

Totally unlike the buteo or accipiter strategies.

Jerry


E-mail from: Jerry Blinn, 03-Jun-1997