Greetings All. Hen Harrier New Forest (1 Viewer)

I'm a keen cyclist and very amateur bird watcher, and whilst out on a spin in the New Forest last Friday (6th Mar 15). I saw this white/grey bird of medium/large size skimming over the heather about 2-300 yards from the road. Initially I thought if was a gull cruising low over the terrane as it was quite windy. As I continued the bird started drawing nearer and I noticed the black wing tips, fanned tail and non gull beak/bill. It was great when it crossed in front of me only about 50 yards away and then it was off down hill. On returning home it was out with the book and low and behold, my first Hen Harrier (male), which I understand winter over in the UK.

Mr Goo said:

On returning home it was out with the book and low and behold, my first Hen Harrier (male), which I understand winter over in the UK.

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Yes, a few winter in the New Forest. They are my favourite winter bird - always great to see one here.

I recall seeng one many years ago N of the A31 near Handy Cross (on the way to Ringwood) - it made my day as it was also a lifer.
Martin