Buzzards

Buzzard is a common name that can refer to several different birds of prey, and its meaning varies by region. In Europe and much of Asia, the term usually denotes the common buzzard (Buteo buteo), a medium-to-large raptor in the family Accipitridae. In North America, “buzzard” is sometimes used to describe vultures such as the turkey vulture or black vulture, which are not true buzzards. The term is therefore ambiguous without regional context.

Common buzzards are stocky birds with broad, rounded wings and a fairly short tail. Adults are typically brown above with lighter underparts, though plumage varies across their wide range. Juveniles tend to be paler and streaked. They are known for their steady, buoyant flight and rising on thermals or updrafts when searching for prey.

Diet and behavior vary, but buzzards are generally opportunistic. They hunt small mammals, birds, reptiles, and large insects, and will also scavange carrion when prey is scarce. They are diurnal and territorial during nesting season, often seen perched in trees or on poles with a broad view of the surrounding area.

Habitat and distribution: common buzzards inhabit a variety of open or semi-open landscapes, including farmland, woodland edges, and hills. They are widespread across Europe and Asia, with some populations in Africa. They adapt to human-altered environments where there are ample hunting grounds and nesting sites.

Reproduction: buzzards nest in trees or on cliff ledges, building a loose platform nest. Clutch sizes commonly range from two to four eggs. Incubation lasts about a month, and the young fledge after several weeks of parental care. Conservation status is generally stable, though local populations can be affected by habitat loss, poisoning, and disturbance.