| Black harrier | |
|---|---|
| |
Scientific classification 
| |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Aves |
| Order: | Accipitriformes |
| Family: | Accipitridae |
| Genus: | Circus |
| Species: | C. maurus
|
| Binomial name | |
| Circus maurus (Temminck, 1828)
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| |
| distribution | |
The black harrier (Circus maurus) is a medium-sized African harrier whose range extends from South Africa to Botswana and Namibia. It has a wingspan of 105–115 cm (41–45 in) and a body length of 44–50 cm (17–20 in).[2] When perched, this bird appears all black. However, in flight, a white rump and flight feathers becomes visible. Its morphology is comparable to that of other harriers, with narrow wings, a slim body, and a long tail. Male and female plumages are similar. Juveniles have buff under-parts and heavily spotted breasts.
- ^ BirdLife International. (2017). "Circus maurus". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2017: e.T22695379A118433168. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2017-3.RLTS.T22695379A118433168.en. Retrieved 31 December 2018.
- ^ Kemp, A.C.; Kirwan, G.M.; Christie, D.A. (2013). del Hoyo, J.; Elliott, A.; Sargatal, J.; Christie, D.A.; de Juana, E. (eds.). "Black Harrier (Circus maurus)". Handbook of the Birds of the World Alive. Barcelona, Spain: Lynx Edicions. Retrieved 7 December 2015.