What feeding adaptation does the marsh hawk have?

The marsh hawk, also known as the northern harrier, primarily utilizes its keen sense of hearing, which is a notable adaptation for locating prey. This adaptation allows the marsh hawk to hunt effectively in dense cover, such as tall grasses and marshes, where visual cues may be limited. The ability to detect sounds made by small mammals or birds helps the marsh hawk pinpoint their location even when they are not visible. This auditory capability is particularly valuable for hunting in environments where stealth and the element of surprise are essential for a successful capture.

Other options do not accurately represent the marsh hawk's feeding adaptations. For instance, while sight is important for many birds of prey, the marsh hawk’s unique advantage lies in its auditory senses, especially during low light or in thick vegetation. Options related to digging for prey or hunting in packs do not align with the marsh hawk's solitary hunting style and its method of preying on animals primarily from a low flight pattern, often gliding silently just above the ground to eavesdrop on potential prey.