Introduction
Explore the fascinating world of raptors with a focus on two distinct species: the swamp harrier and the Fiji Goshawk. These birds of prey, each unique in their habitat and characteristics, provide a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems they inhabit across the islands of Fiji. Accipitridae, a diverse family of birds of prey within the order Accipitriformes, encompasses hawks, eagles, kites, harriers, and Old World vultures. Known for their powerful hooked beaks, strong legs, formidable talons, and exceptional eyesight, these birds specialize in tearing flesh from their prey.
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Swamp Harrier
The swamp harrier is a long-legged, medium-sized raptor known for its long, narrow wings and varied plumage. Adults have a prominent white rump, while juveniles are darker below. They fly slowly and low over open habitats with wings in a shallow V shape, breeding in reed-beds and primarily inhabiting swamps and wetlands. Found widely across Australasia and the southwestern Pacific islands, this species primarily preys on ground birds, water birds, small mammals, reptiles, frogs, and fish.
Common Name:Â Swamp Harrier
Scientific Name:Â Circus approximans
Recorded Sightings:Â Viti Levu – Vanua Levu – Taveuni – Kadavu – Lomaiviti – Lau
Image Supplied:Â Birdsaspoetry.
Fun Fact 1: Occasional Fruit Diet
Swamp Harrier: Despite their predominantly carnivorous diet, swamp harriers have been observed occasionally consuming fruit, showcasing their adaptability in finding food sources.
Fiji Goshawk
The Fiji Goshawk (Accipiter rufitorques) is a distinctive bird of prey endemic to Fiji, found on major islands like Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, and others. It inhabits a variety of wooded environments, including rainforests, coconut plantations, and urban areas. This medium-sized goshawk, measuring 30–40 cm, shows sexual dimorphism with females larger than males. Adults have grey heads, backs, tails, and wings, with pinkish undersides and collars. Juveniles are brown with heavily streaked breasts. Known for its piercing orange eyes and legs, the Fiji Goshawk plays a role in controlling Mynah bird populations.
Common Name:Â Fiji Goshawk
Scientific Name:Â Accipiter rufitorques
Recorded Sightings:Â Viti Levu – Vanua Levu – Taveuni – Kadavu – Lomaiviti
Image Supplied:Â Mike’s Birds
Fun Fact 2: Tail Flicking
Fiji Goshawk: The Fiji Goshawk is known for its distinctive hunting technique called “tail flicking,” where it flicks its tail up and down while perched to attract insects, making them easier to catch.
NatureFiji-MareqetiViti is Fiji’s only domestic NGO working solely for the conservation and sustainable management of Fiji’s unique natural heritage – Link
That’s all, folks! No extra info to dig into this time!
Just a quick note—no footnotes to add this time!
- Birdsaspoetry. 2023. “Swamp Harrier: Turning Away.” January 29. Flickr. Accessed June 10, 2024. Link
- del Hoyo, Josep. 2013. Swamp Harrier – Circus approximans. Video. Macaulay Library. Link. Accesse 9 June 2024.
- del Hoyo, Josep. 2012. Fiji Goshawk Accipiter rufitorques. Audio. Macaulay Library. Link. Accessed 31 June 2024.
- del Hoyo, Josep. 2012. Fiji Goshawk Accipiter rufitorques. Video. Macaulay Library. Link. Accessed 6 June 2024.
- Kavanagh, Patrick. 2021. “Swamp Harrier (Circus approximans).” June 8. Flickr. Accessed June 20, 2024. Link
- Singal, Ramit. 2020. Swamp Harrier – Circus approximans. Audio. Macaulay Library. Link. Accessed 7 June 2024.
- MERLIN. Fiji Goshawk. Website. Ebird. Link. Accessed 18 June 2024.
- MERLIN. Swamp Harrier Circus approximans. Website. Ebird. Link. Accessed 18 June 2024.
- Mike’s Birds. 2016. “Fiji Goshawk.” December 26. Flickr. Accessed June 20, 2024. Link
- Wikipedia contributors. 2023. Fiji Goshawk. Website. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Link. Accessed 10 June 2024.
- Wikipedia contributors. 2024. Swamp harrier. Website. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Link. Accessed 11 June 2024.