A bird of prey very similar to the much more common buzzard, though only a small number spend winter in the UK. It has the habit of 'hanging' in the air while looking for prey, hovering much more regularly than common buzzards. Key features include the black-tipped white tail, paler appearance than most common buzzard, longer wings and paler head. Beware of pale common buzzards - a notoriously variable species. A close view will reveal the heavily feathered legs that give this bird its name.
Mammals, including rabbits and voles. On the breeding grounds, lemmings are a staple food.
Only a handful of rough-legged buzzards come to the UK each year, mainly to locations on the east coast. Coastal marshes and farmland are favoured. Occasional larger influxes occur, following good breeding success by the birds and then a food shortage in Scandinavia.
Rough-legged buzzards arrive in the UK from October and stay until spring.
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