photo by Greg Hofmann

10/18/2004: The white rump-patch stands out boldly against the brown plumage of this female Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus) – harrier males are pale grey. Unlike the high-flying Red-tailed Hawks, these birds typically hunt at low altitudes, gliding and teetering in flight. They are also called "marsh hawks," and they are a familiar sight around the slough.