Common Buzzard
1. Bird Name
The bird under view is best known as the Common Buzzard. Its scientific name is Buteo buteo.
2. Appearance
The Common Buzzard is a broad-winged raptor with a distinctly robust build. It sports a variety of colorations from light to dark brown with noticeable streaks on its underparts that are generally white and brown. The head appears relatively small with an imposing robust beak and dark eyes. They have short necks with conspicuous, broad wings showcasing a somewhat rounded shape. An intriguing aspect of their appearance is the variability among individual birds – some might appear almost entirely white from below, while others may exhibit an almost uniform dark brown coloration. Interestingly, there is no significant difference in the appearance between males and females.
3. Size
On average, a Common Buzzard measures between 40-58 cm (15.7-22.8 inches) in length. Their wingspan ranges from 109 cm to 130 cm (43–51 inches). A lightweight bird for its size, it generally weighs between 550g and 1.3 kg (1.2-2.8 pounds).
4. Habitat & Distribution
Common Buzzards are widespread across the European continent, extending to parts of Asia and even reaching North Africa in winter months. Their preferred habitats are woodlands, farmlands, marshes, and moors. They are found in plentiful numbers in places like Russia, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, where open lands with adjoining forests exist.
5. Interesting Facts
Common Buzzards exhibit remarkable adaptability, residing in habitats ranging from sea level up to an altitude of 2000 meters. They migrate seasonally and are fairly territorial creatures. Interestingly, they also perform a beautiful aerial ‘roller coaster’ display during courtship.
6. Diet
The Common Buzzard is a carnivore and its diet largely comprises small mammals like rodents and rabbits. It also diversifies its diet by including birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. They are known to be opportunistic feeders and will eat carrion if the opportunity arises.
7. Behavior & Sounds
As highly adaptable birds, Common Buzzards might be seen soaring in the air, perched on a tall tree, or even walking on the ground in search for food. Their flight is powerful and determined, made up of heavy wing beats. They have a distinctive plaintive mewing call that is often performed either in flight or while perched.
8. Conservation Status
Their conservation status, according to the IUCN Red List, is ‘Least Concern’, reflecting their widespread presence across plenty of territory.
9. Lifespan
In the wild, the lifespan of a Common Buzzard averages between 12 to 15 years, while in captivity they can survive slightly longer, given optimum care.
10. Additional Notes
In France, it is known as “Buse variable” and in Germany, it is called “Mäusebussard.” Buzzards often come into minor conflict with humans due to their predation of game birds and livestock. Despite such instances, they play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling the number of small pests. They are fascinating birds, embodying the wild beauty and power of birds of prey, and are a joy to observe in their natural environment.
