Species Profile
Oriental Honey-buzzard
Pernis ptilorhynchus
Quick Facts
Conservation
LCLeast ConcernLifespan
8–10 years
Length
52–68 cm
Weight
750–1500 g
Wingspan
115–155 cm
Migration
Partial migrant
Also known as: Crested Honey Buzzard, Eastern Honey Buzzard, Asiatic Honey Buzzard
Think you've spotted a Oriental Honey-buzzard?
Upload a photo and our AI will confirm it instantly
Confirm with a PhotoGallery
Appearance
The Oriental Honey-buzzard is a large raptor. Males are typically lighter than females. Its appearance is quite variable, with plumage ranging from pale to dark brown. A distinctive feature is its crest, which varies in length depending on the subspecies.
This species shows considerable variation across its range, with different populations showing distinct characteristics in size, colouring, and crest development.
While generally brown in colour, individuals can show various patterns of barring on their underparts, and some may display a distinctive dark marking on their chests.
Identification & Characteristics
Colors
- Primary
- Brown
- Secondary
- Black
- Beak
- Grey
- 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
Oriental Honey-buzzards inhabit a wide range of forested habitats across Asia, from India and southern China to Indonesia and the Philippines. They prefer areas with mature trees in tropical, subtropical, and temperate zones.
During migration, these birds can be observed in more open landscapes and even urban areas. Some populations in tropical regions are resident, while others undertake long-distance migrations.
Distribution
Diet
The Oriental Honey-buzzard primarily feeds on the larvae and combs of bees and wasps. They also consume other insects, small vertebrates, and occasionally fruits.
Their specialised face feathers and scale-like head plumage protect them from stings as they raid nests of social insects.
Behaviour
Oriental Honey-buzzards are known for their unique feeding behaviour, using their specialised feathers around the face to protect against bee stings while raiding nests.
They are often seen soaring on thermals with flat wings, occasionally performing slow, deep wingbeats. These birds are generally solitary but may gather in small groups during migration.
Calls & Sounds
The Oriental Honey-buzzard is generally quiet but becomes more vocal during the breeding season. Its call is a high-pitched, drawn-out whistle, often described as 'pee-yew' or 'pee-oo'.
During courtship, pairs may engage in a series of rapid, piping calls.
Nesting & Breeding
Breeding typically occurs from April to August, varying by region. Oriental Honey-buzzards form monogamous pairs and engage in aerial displays during courtship.
Nests are constructed high in trees, often near the trunk or a main fork. The nest is a platform of sticks lined with green leaves. Females usually lay 2 eggs, which are white with brown markings.
Both parents participate in incubation, which lasts about 30-35 days. The young fledge after 40-45 days but may remain dependent on their parents for several more weeks.
Conservation
While the Oriental Honey-buzzard is currently listed as Least Concern, it faces threats from habitat loss and degradation in parts of its range.
Conservation efforts focus on protecting forested areas and monitoring populations, particularly along migration routes.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for them soaring high in the sky with flat wings
- Observe near forested areas, especially during migration seasons
- Listen for their high-pitched, whistling calls
- Watch for their distinctive head-bobbing behaviour when perched
Did You Know?
- Their specialised face feathers protect against bee and wasp stings.
- They can locate bee nests by watching the flight paths of returning worker bees.
- Some individuals migrate over 10,000 kilometres annually between breeding and wintering grounds.
Community Photos
Be the first to share a photo of the Oriental Honey-buzzard
Upload a PhotoSimilar Species
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