The young are very like the common kite in appearance, but may be distinguished when on the wing by the fact that the tail of the Brahminy is always rounded, while that of the kite is more or less forked.
This species is rare in the Punjab, common everywhere else. In Madras it sometimes swoops down and carries off a snipe that has been shot by a sportsman. Its cry is a peculiar squeaking wail. (Illus. B. D., p. 190.)
[152]. Milvus govinda: The Common Pariah Kite. (F. 1229), (J. 56), (V.)
Description of this ubiquitous bird is unnecessary. His long tail, slightly forked at the tip, suffices to distinguish him at a glance from all other raptorial birds. (Illus. B. D., p. 182; also B. P., p. 148.)
[153]. Circus macrurus: The Pale Harrier. (F. 1233), (J. 51), (+IV.)
[154]. Circus cineraceus: Montagu’s Harrier. (F. 1234), (J. 52), (+IV.)
[155]. Circus cyaneus: The Hen Harrier. (F. 1235), (J. 50), (-V.)
[156]. Circus melanoleucus: The Pied Harrier. (F. 1236), (J. 53), (+IV.)
[157]. Circus æruginosus: The Marsh Harrier. (F. 1237), (J. 54), (-V.)
I shall not attempt to describe these birds, as, although it may be possible to tell the male birds apart, the hens are so alike that to distinguish them is no easy matter. The ordinary man will doubtless be satisfied to call them all harriers.