The Northern Harrier was once a common nesting species on grasslands and wet meadows of Iowa. It is still fairly common during migration and sometimes in winter but has largely disappeared as a nesting species in Iowa. Well known for its prominent white rump patch and distinctive low flight path, the Northern Harrier is currently considered endangered in Iowa. A few pairs nest in the state most years but they tend to be erratic in occurrance, apparently with more nesting in years when the small rodent population is high and less in years when rodents are scarce. Their nest is built on the ground where it is very susceptible to disturbance and often destroyed by predators. Habitat loss is undoubtedly the main reason for the near disappearance of this species as a nesting bird in Iowa.
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indicates a designated IBA.