How Do You Spell HEN HARRIER?

Pronunciation: [hˈɛn hˈaɹɪə] (IPA)

The spelling of "hen harrier" can be complicated due to the pronunciation of the word. The word "harrier" is pronounced /ˈhær.i.ər/, with stress on the second syllable. The first word, "hen," may throw off non-native speakers, as it is pronounced like the word "henna" /ˈhɛn.ə/. Therefore, the correct spelling of the word is "hen harrier" /ˈhɛn ˈhær.i.ər/. The hen harrier is a bird of prey that is known for its graceful flight and hunting abilities.

HEN HARRIER Meaning and Definition

1. The hen harrier, also known by its scientific name Circus cyaneus, is a medium-sized bird of prey belonging to the harrier family, Accipitridae. This raptor is characterized by its slender build, long wings, and distinct sexual dimorphism, where males and females exhibit different plumage.

   Males are predominantly pale grey in color, with black wingtips and a white rump. Females, on the other hand, are larger and display a mottled brown plumage, generally featuring a pale head with a dark stripe across the eye. Both sexes possess a keen eyesight and acute hearing, enabling them to skillfully hunt and capture their prey.

   The hen harrier primarily frequents open areas with grasslands, marshes, and moorlands, often found in regions of Europe, North America, and Asia. They are renowned for their unique hunting technique called 'quartering,' where they glide low over the ground searching for small mammals and birds. During courtship displays, these birds perform a spectacular aerial ballet, involving undulating flights and swoops.

   Unfortunately, the hen harrier population has faced numerous conservation challenges, mainly due to habitat loss, illegal hunting, and persecution. This has resulted in a decline in their numbers and led to their classification as an endangered species in several countries.

   Efforts to protect these magnificent birds have included establishing reserves, enforcing hunting regulations, and raising awareness about their conservation status. By safeguarding their habitats and implementing sustainable farming practices, we can contribute to the preservation of this iconic bird species for future generations to appreciate and admire.

2. A kind of hawk or kite-so called as the harasser or enemy of hens.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for HEN HARRIER

• gen harrier
• ben harrier
• nen harrier
• jen harrier
• uen harrier
• yen harrier
• hwn harrier
• hsn harrier
• hdn harrier
• hrn harrier
• h4n harrier
• h3n harrier
• heb harrier
• hem harrier
• hej harrier
• heh harrier
• hen garrier
• hen barrier
• hen narrier

Etymology of HEN HARRIER

The etymology of the word "hen harrier" can be broken down as follows:

1. "Hen": The term "hen" in this context refers to a female bird, specifically a domestic fowl like a chicken or a grouse. The word "hen" ultimately derives from the Old English word "henn" or "hænn", which meant a female bird.

2. "Harrier": The word "harrier" refers to a type of bird of prey that belongs to the family Accipitridae. The term "harrier" originates from the Middle English word "hariere", which means someone who harasses or hunts for someone or something. This likely reflects the bird's hunting behavior, as the hen harrier is known for its ability to fly low over open areas, searching for prey.

Similar spelling word for HEN HARRIER

• henna hair.