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Buzzard |
Feeding
Buzzards eat principally small rodents, but also take birds, reptiles, amphibians, larger insects and earthworms. Prey up to 500g is taken by active predation, anything heavier is usually carrion or seriously enfeebled individuals. Gamebirds are sometimes taken, though they make up only a tiny proportion of the total number of pheasants and red-legged partridges released for shooting. Carrion can form a significant part of buzzard diet, although the amount of carrion taken varies a lot from place to place. Buzzards use three main hunting techniques. They locate prey from a perch and then fly direct to it, sometimes using intervening cover for a surprise attack. They often soar over open terrain, occasionally hanging in the wind or hovering before dropping on to the prey and following up the attack on the ground. They are also commonly seen walking or standing on the ground whilst looking for invertebrates. |
Bird guide |
RSPB Lake Vyrnwy nature reserve, view of pasture and heather moorland - Andy Hay (rspb-images.com, Ref: 9001998_00113_009)
Buzzard landing on ground - Steve Round
Buzzard perching on wooden post - Steve Round
Bird illustrations by Mike Langman (RSPB)