Swamp Harrier Circus approximans
(aka Australian / Pacific Marsh Harrier)
Female Swamp Harrier, Southport, Tasmania, Australia, February 2006 - click for larger image Australia
February / March 2006

The Swamp Harrier breeds in the south of Australia and in New Zealand while some birds migrate into northern Australia, New Guinea and nearby islands during the austral winter. Tasmanian breeders move to the mainland in winter.

Female Swamp Harrier, Southport, Tasmania, Australia, February 2006 - click for larger image They require wetlands surrounded by grassland or pastures. They nest on the ground in dense vegetation and feed on a wide variety of small mammals, birds, eggs, fish, reptiles and insects.

They fly low over swamps and farmland hunting with head down, upswept wings and rocking from side to side so that their white rump is usually visible.
Swamp Harrier, Port Elliot, SA, Australia, March 2006 - click for larger image
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