Western Marsh Harrier song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Western Marsh Harrier, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

Males perform a 'sky-dancing' display flight with a series of rising and falling undulations, often accompanied by a rapid, repeated 'kek-kek-kek' call. This is primarily a display vocalization.

Calls

Common calls include a sharp 'kek-kek-kek' or 'kew-kew-kew' alarm call, often given when disturbed near the nest or when mobbing intruders. Females have a softer 'peeh' call when soliciting food from the male. A 'pyeek' call is also associated with food transfers.

When they vocalize

Most vocal during the breeding season, especially during courtship displays and when adults are provisioning young or alarmed.

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