Coursers refer to swift-running birds of prey that belong to the family Accipitridae, specifically, the genus Circus. They are known for their exceptional agility and ability to course through the air in search of fleeting prey. Coursers typically have long, slender limbs and wings, allowing them to maneuver quickly during flight.
These birds are characterized by their striking appearance, with sharp, curved beaks and keen eyesight. With their aerodynamic bodies and powerful wings, coursers are highly skilled at navigating open spaces, such as grasslands or meadows. Their primary diet consists of small mammals, birds, insects, and occasionally reptiles or amphibians. Coursers are mainly active during daylight hours, utilizing their sharp vision to locate their prey from the air, and then perform swift descents to capture it.
Although coursers do have similarities with their close relatives, harriers, they are distinguishable by their specialized hunting techniques. Unlike harriers, coursers rely less on long bouts of hovering and instead resort to their swift aerial athleticism to capture prey. Their hunting strategy involves low-level flights, rapid twists, and turns, often accompanied by sudden dives or swoops.
Due to the variety of species encompassed within the genus Circus, coursers can be found in various parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America. While some are migratory, others remain primarily sedentary in their habitats. Coursers are admired by birdwatchers and ornithologists for their graceful flight patterns and remarkable hunting skills.
