African Marsh Harrier – Garden Route South Africa

Whenever I visit the lakes and marshes along the Garden Route, I always keep a close eye on the water’s edge and the reedbeds. The African Marsh Harrier is a master of surprise. It flies very low over the reeds, almost skimming the surface, then suddenly drops onto its prey. Once it has caught its target, it usually stays right there on the ground or perched low to eat it. Unlike other raptors such as the African Fish Eagle or Osprey, I have never seen an African Marsh Harrier carry its catch away high into the sky. However, I frequently observe them soaring very high and hovering gracefully in the late afternoon light.

Book a birding trip with Birdwatcher on the Garden Route or Klein Karoo