This gangly raptor, characterized by its long wings and tail, is found in marshes and wetlands with extensive reed beds. It is mainly seen in flight, flying fairly low over marshes with its wings raised in a shallow V. The most common plumage is dark brown overall, with a variable creamy cap, throat, and a narrow leading edge to the wings. The brightest adult males have tricolored upperwings, a grayish tail, and a pale head and breast that contrast with a rusty-brown belly. This bird is extremely similar to the closely related Eastern Marsh-Harrier. However, males of the Eastern Marsh-Harrier are darker-headed and browner-chested, while females are warmer brown and streakier on the chest, lacking the Eurasian Marsh-Harrier’s distinct white ‘cap’ and dark line through the eye.