There is something both ethereal and ephemeral when it comes to a Black Harrier sighting on the wing. Arguably, the most visually striking within the global suite of harriers…

Black Harrier

Black Harrier

Ethereal in relation to its exquisite and unmistakably striking black and white overtly pristine colouration with distinctive white rump and bi-coloured underwing.

Black Harrier

Black Harrier showing white rump and those yellow eyes!

Ephemeral in the sense of the unexpected and unpredictive nature of its appearance quartering low over indigenous ‘fynbos’ and vaporising within the minute over a distant horizon …

Black Harrier

Black Harrier – another flight view

Above all other features the piercing yolk yellow eyes in contrast to the all-black colouration, when perched and staring down the observer, should such a close up opportunity and good fortune present itself, is an indelibly delightful moment to be visually savoured and enjoyed for the interactive memory imparted.

Black Harrier

Black Harrier, back view showing the distinctive white rump clearly