Species Profile
Buzzard
Buteo buteo
Buzzard
Quick Facts
Conservation
LCLeast ConcernAlso known as: Common Buzzard, European Buzzard, Eurasian Buzzard
Think you've spotted a Buzzard?
Upload a photo and our AI will confirm it instantly
Confirm with a PhotoGallery
Appearance
The Buzzard exhibits a wide variety of plumage colours, ranging from dark chocolate-brown to pale cream. Its broad wings and short, fan-shaped tail are characteristic features, and its wingspan of 113-128 cm makes it an impressive sight in flight.
Both sexes are similar in appearance, with females usually larger than males. Juveniles tend to have lighter plumage with more streaking (not barred). All Buzzards have yellow legs, a dark-tipped hooked beak, and piercing dark eyes.
Identification & Characteristics
Colors
- Primary
- Brown
- Secondary
- White
- Beak
- Black
- Legs
- Yellow
Attributes
Understanding Attributes
Rated 0–100 based on research and observation. A score of 50 is average across all bird species. These attributes are relative and don't necessarily indicate superiority.
Habitat & Distribution
Buzzards thrive in various habitats, including woodlands, farmland, and grasslands across Europe and parts of Asia. They prefer areas with a mix of open ground for hunting and trees for nesting and perching.
In the UK, Buzzards are now widespread, having recolonised eastern areas in recent decades. Some northern populations migrate south for winter, while others are resident year-round, depending on food availability.
Distribution
Where to See This Bird
Explore regional guides for locations where this bird has been recorded.
United Kingdom
Cambridgeshire
England
Northern Ireland
Scotland
Wales
Rutland
Bedfordshire
Buckinghamshire
Berkshire
Bristol
Cheshire
Cornwall
Cumbria
Derbyshire
Devon
Dorset
Durham
East Riding of Yorkshire
Essex
East Sussex
Gloucestershire
Hampshire
Herefordshire
Hertfordshire
Isle of Wight
Kent
Merseyside
Lancashire
Leicestershire
Lincolnshire
London
Manchester
Northumberland
Norfolk
Northamptonshire
Nottinghamshire
North Yorkshire
Oxfordshire
South Yorkshire
Tyne and Wear
West Midlands
Suffolk
Shropshire
Somerset
Surrey
Staffordshire
Stockton-on-Tees
Warwickshire
Wiltshire
West Yorkshire
Worcestershire
West Sussex
Diet
Buzzards are opportunistic hunters with a varied diet. They primarily feed on small mammals, especially voles and rabbits, but also consume birds, reptiles, and large insects. During scarce times, they'll scavenge carrion, demonstrating their adaptability.
Other prey includes rodents and shrews, hares, reptiles like lizards and snakes, frogs and toads, beetles, earthworms and other invertebrates.
Behaviour
Buzzards are often seen perched prominently on poles or trees, scanning for prey. They're masters of energy conservation, frequently soaring on thermal currents with minimal wing movement.
During the breeding season, pairs perform spectacular aerial displays, including spiralling flights and talon-grappling.
Calls & Sounds
The Buzzard's most recognisable call is a plaintive, cat-like 'pee-yow' or 'kee-yah', often heard during territorial displays or when alarmed.
During courtship, pairs may engage in a series of high-pitched mewing calls, adding to the soundscape of European woodlands.
Nesting & Breeding
Buzzard pairs often mate for life, reinforcing their bond with impressive aerial displays in early spring. They typically breed once a year, with the season starting in March or April.
Nests are built in tall trees or on cliffs, constructed of sticks and lined with fresh leaves. The female usually lays 2-3 eggs, which are white with brown speckles.
Incubation lasts about 33-38 days, primarily by the female. Chicks fledge after 50-60 days but remain dependent on their parents for several weeks.
Conservation
While the Buzzard is currently listed as Least Concern, it faces threats from habitat loss and illegal persecution.
In some areas, particularly in the UK, populations have recovered significantly following past declines due to pesticide use and hunting.
Elevation
Sea level to 2,000 meters
Additional Details
- Predators:
- Adult Buzzards have few natural predators, but eggs and chicks may fall victim to martens, foxes, and larger birds of prey such as Eagle Owls.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for Buzzards soaring in wide circles over open countryside
- Listen for their distinctive 'mewing', cat-like call, especially during the breeding season
- Their wings form a shallow V-shape when soaring
- Observe fence posts and isolated trees in fields for perched individuals
- In the UK, they're commonly seen along motorways, utilising updrafts from traffic
Did You Know?
- Buzzards can live up to 25 years in the wild, making them one of the longer-lived raptor species.
- They have excellent eyesight and can spot prey over a kilometre away.
- Buzzards have been observed hunting cooperatively in pairs in some parts of their range.
- The Common Buzzard can reach speeds of up to 28 mph and fly at an average height of 400 metres - but has been known to reach heights of 1,000 metres.
Community Photos
Be the first to share a photo of the Buzzard
Upload a PhotoSimilar Species
Related Articles
Identify Any Bird Instantly
- Upload a photo from your phone or camera
- Get an instant AI identification
- Ask follow-up questions about the bird
Monthly Birds in Your Area
- Personalised for your location
- Seasonal tips and garden advice
- Updated every month with new species