Swamp Harrier

Kāhu is a large brown raptor commonly seen quartering low over New Zealand roadsides, marshes and farmland. Broad wings held in a shallow V, a pale rump and slow rocking flight separate it from the smaller, faster kārearea, which glides with flatter wings.

It is widespread throughout mainland New Zealand, the Chathams and many offshore islands wherever open country provides prey. Kāhu hunt mammals, birds and insects, scavenge roadkill and nest on the ground in dense wetland vegetation.

Swamp harrier is Not Threatened (NZ Threat Classification). Vehicle strikes, shooting and wetland drainage cause local losses. Open farmland and wetland roadsides across both islands provide daily sightings.