Northern Harrier At The Golf Course: Dublin Photo Of The Day

DUBLIN, CA - Dublin Ranch Golf Course saw an unusual guest the other day: a northern harrier, also known as a marsh hawk or ring-tailed hawk.

Jim Erickson shared this photo that he took of the amazing bird, which stopped to drink from a small lake at the course, and stayed there long enough that Erickson was able to get within 20 feet of it.

Northern harriers are found throughout Canada and the northern United States. They are birds of prey that breed in bogs, prairies, marshes and swamps, and feed on mice, rats and squirrels. They are typically 16-20 inches long, with a 38-48-inch wingspan.

On the off chance that you see one on your wedding day, consider yourself lucky: some Native American tribes believe that’s a symbol of a long, happy marriage to come.

Thanks Jim for sharing! If you have photos of life in Dublin, email michael.wittner@patch.com.