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THE RAPTORIAL BIRDS OP IOWA 



Fig. 20. The Marsh Hawk. 



posts or on the ground, the distinguishing mark in any plumage being 

 a patch of white feathers above the base of the tail. Adult males are 

 of a general ashy bluish color ; female and immature birds are dark 

 colored with streaks of dusky and buff, the latter with much dull red 

 beneath. 



Description. A noticeable ruff of radiating feathers about the eyes 

 much as in the owls. Adult male, above ashy or grayish ash; upper 

 tail coverts conspicuously white ; tail barred with six to eight dusky 



