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Sound clips and movies require Adobe Flash player. Latin nameButeo buteo FamilyHawks, vultures and eagles (Accipitridae) OverviewThe commonest UK bird of prey, it is quite large with broad, rounded wings, and a short neck and tail. When gliding and soaring it will often hold its wings in a shallow 'V'. It is variable in colour from all dark brown to birds with pale heads and breasts, all have dark wingtips and an unbanded tail. Where to see themGreatest numbers in Scotland, Wales, the Lake District and SW England. Found on farmland with wooded hills, moorland and in more arable areas to the east where it is spreading. Look for birds soaring over wooded hillsides in fine weather, or perched on fence posts and pylons. When to see themAll year round. Birds soar, display and call most in spring. What they eatSmall mammals, birds and carrion. Estimated numbers
* UK breeding is the number of pairs breeding annually. UK wintering is the number of individuals present from October to March. UK passage is the number of individuals passing through on migration in spring and/or autumn. Distribution
Please note that the map is only intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations. Find out moreAudio is from commercial recordings Bird Songs and Calls of Britain and Europe on 4 CDs or Bird Sounds of Europe & North-west Africa, copyright WildSounds & CEBA (www.wildsounds.com, (UK) +44 (0) 1263 741100) |
 Buzzard  Adult  Pale phase Similar birds |
Buzzard landing on ground - Steve Round
Buzzard perching on wooden post - Steve Round
Bird illustrations by Mike Langman (RSPB)