harrier eagle

The term "harrier eagle" refers to any of several large Old World hawks belonging to the genus Circaetus. These birds are intermediate between typical hawks and eagles. They are also known as short-toed eagles.1

Harriers, a related group of birds, are characterized by their plain appearance, long legs, and slender build. They typically cruise low over meadows and marshes, hunting small prey such as mice, snakes, frogs, and insects. The best-known harrier is the hen harrier, also known as the northern harrier or marsh hawk in the United States.2

Eagles, in contrast, are generally larger and more powerful birds of prey with heavy beaks and strong talons. They primarily hunt live prey, surprising their quarry on the ground. While "harrier eagle" specifically denotes the Circaetus genus, the term "harpy eagle" refers to a different group of large, powerful eagles found in tropical forests.3