Northern Harrier, Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County, California
A female or, possibly juvenile, harrier stands on a fence post. Harriers (AKA marsh hawks) seem to live close to ground level. When I see them they are flying just above the ground or they are perched on something low, like a post, or standing on the ground. They even nest on the ground. Note the owl-like facial disc. Like owls, they use hearing as well as sight to help in locating prey. Another trait they share with owls is soft feathers which makes them quieter in flight.
