Volume 20, Plate XXIV / Ornithology (Birds)

Marsh Harrier

Circus rufus

Stronger in every proportion than its relatives yet similar in manners, the Marsh Harrier delights in low marshy grounds, gliding close over reeds and darting at raised quarry without pursuit, preying on water-rats, wild ducks, frogs, and reptiles. Common in many parts of England but rare in precipitous Scotland and partially migratory, it nests on a grass tuft near marshes and lays pure white eggs; its plumage varies from deep umber brown to paler reddish shades.