The Harrier, a bird of prey with a distinctive low-flight hunting style, is known for its long wings and tail. It inhabits open fields and marshes, using its keen eyesight and sense of hearing to locate small mammals and birds. Notably, it builds nests on the ground.

The term 'Harrier' generally refers to a group of birds in the genus *Circus*, within the family Accipitridae. Harriers are found across various continents including Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Notably, species such as the Hen Harrier (*Circus cyaneus*) are found in Europe and North America, while the Marsh Harrier (*Circus aeruginosus*) can be found in parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Each species has its specific range, but collectively, harriers have a widespread distribution across the Northern Hemisphere.

Harriers typically inhabit open areas such as marshes, grasslands, agricultural fields, and prairies. They favor environments that allow for low flight and hunting over wide expanses. These areas usually offer plenty of prey, such as small mammals, birds, and insects. The climate in these regions can vary significantly, from temperate zones in Europe and North America to more tropical or subtropical climates in parts of Africa and Asia.

Harriers occupy a niche as ground-nesting raptors that rely heavily on stealth and agility to hunt. They are adapted to exploit wide open spaces and often use their acute sense of hearing to detect prey. The species' morphological and behavioral adaptations allow them to thrive in diverse environments, although they are typically more abundant in areas where agricultural or wetland habitats provide ample hunting opportunities and cover for nesting.