If you’re out walking in the countryside or hiking through the hills, you may spot a large bird of prey circling high overhead. The chances are this impressive creature is a buzzard.
Buzzards are a type of hawk that are native to Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. In the UK, the common buzzard is one of the most widespread and frequently seen birds of prey. With their broad, rounded wings and distinctive silhouette, buzzards are fairly easy to identify when spotted flying against the sky.
These large birds, with wingspans that can reach over four feet, are renowned for their graceful soaring abilities. They spend much of their time effortlessly gliding and circling high above the ground, using their keen eyesight to search for prey below. When they spot a potential meal, such as a small mammal, bird, or even a reptile, they will swiftly dive down to catch it in their sharp talons.
Although often mistaken for eagles, buzzards are smaller in size, with a more compact body and shorter, rounded tail. They have a varying plumage that is usually a mottled brown or dark grey colour, which helps them blend in with their woodland and moorland habitats. Some buzzards also have distinctive light-coloured bands on the undersides of their wings.
As well as hunting for their own food, buzzards are also known to scavenge and feed on carrion – animals that have already died. This versatile diet means they play an important role in the ecosystem by helping to clean up and dispose of animal remains.
These resilient birds are found across a wide range of habitats, from forests and grasslands to urban areas. In fact, buzzards have adapted remarkably well to living alongside humans, and their numbers have been steadily increasing in the UK in recent decades.
Buzzards are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, which means it is illegal to intentionally kill, injure or capture them. This legal protection, along with a decline in persecution, has allowed buzzard populations to recover and thrive.
With their impressive size, distinctive appearance, and graceful soaring flight, buzzards are a true delight to spot in the wild. So next time you’re out exploring the great outdoors, keep your eyes peeled for these magnificent birds of prey that may be circling high above.
In this video, you can take a long look at different buzzards filmed in someone’s garden. How would you describe the buzzard?
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