Harrier StrixHow it works & interactions with other cards

A Multi-Talented Avian

Harrier Strix serves three distinct roles: an evasive attacker with Flying, a temporary disruptive tool via its enters-the-battlefield trigger, and a repeatable source of card filtering. Its ability to tap any permanent means it can stop an attacker, disable a blocker, or even temporarily cut off a source of mana.

Understanding the Triggered Ability

When Harrier Strix enters the battlefield, you choose a target permanent to tap. This is a mandatory trigger, though official rulings clarify you can target a permanent that is already tapped if necessary. Because it targets 'target permanent,' you are not limited to creatures; you can target lands, artifacts, or enchantments.

Looting in the Late Game

The activated ability costing {2}{U} allows you to draw a card and then discard a card. This is known as 'looting.' This ability does not require the Strix to tap, meaning you can use it the same turn it enters the battlefield (provided you have the mana) and multiple times in a single turn if you have the resources.

Common Strategic Mistakes

A common error is forgetting that the discard happens regardless of what you draw. If you have zero cards in hand and activate the ability, you will draw one and then immediately discard one, leaving you with zero cards again. Additionally, tapping a land during an opponent's main phase doesn't stop them from tapping it in response to add mana to their pool.

Interaction examples

Disrupting Mana Production

Ornithopter of Paradise

If your opponent is relying on Ornithopter of Paradise for a specific color of mana, you can cast Harrier Strix. When its trigger targets the Ornithopter of Paradise, your opponent must decide to tap it for mana immediately in response, or else it will be tapped by the Strix's ability and become unavailable for the rest of the turn.

Triggering Draw Synergies

Faerie Mastermind

If you control Faerie Mastermind and an opponent activates their own Harrier Strix's looting ability during their turn, it counts as a card draw. If they had already drawn for their turn, this second draw will trigger your Faerie Mastermind, allowing you to draw a card as well.

Solo Efficiency

In a vacuum, Harrier Strix can be played on turn one to start chip damage. Later, if the board stalls, you can use your excess mana to activate its ability, discarding unneeded lands to search for more impactful spells while keeping a flying blocker ready.