594 REPTILES AND BIRDS. 
which surrounds the neck and extends on each side to the ears. 
Marshy plains, and woods situated in the vicinity of rivers, are their 
most frequent resorts. They build their nests on the ground, or close 
to it in the brushwood, and in this respect differ from most of the 
Falcon family. When searching for their prey they skim over the 
ground, and take it by surprise ; if the attacked is fortunate enough 
to avoid the Harrier’s onset it is safe from pursuit. In Europe the 
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—— 
6 
Fig. 278.—Common Buzzards. 
best-known species of this family are the Hen Harrier (Circus cuaneus, 
Fig. 279), and the Marsh Harrier (Circus cruginosus). 
The former bird is about seventeen inches high ; it inhabits all 
the countries of Europe, and feeds on serpents, rodents, and frogs. 
When it succeeds in making its way into pigeon-houses or poultry- 
yards it commits great havoc. 
The latter feeds principally on game, to which it is extremely 
destructive. Game preservers consequently are their bitterest enemies. 
Their flight is not swift except when pouncing on their prey, which is 
done with great certainty and velocity. ; 
The other species we will mention are the Frog-eating Harrier 
