Many harriers are polygynous. For migratory species, breeding territories are usually reestablished before pairs are formed. Aerial displays may also be used simultaneously, or sequentially, to attract new mates, and for bonding between established pairs. Pair displays may include high speed dives, chases, mutual talon grabbing and cartwheeling, and food passing. Other pair bonding behaviors include mutual roosting, cooperative hunting, courtship fights, mutual preening, nibbling, courtship feeding, nest inspections or nest building, and copulation.
Copulation occurs when there is cloaca to cloaca contact.
Most diurnal birds of prey establish territories and breed in the same general area where they were hatched and raised. C. Breeding seasons. Diurnal birds of prey breed during the time of the year when food is most available for raising young. Each species usually lays its eggs at the same time each year. Nest building varies between species.