Western Europe Birds & Birding (#28/52): From the Highland Willow Scrub of Scotland to the Aegean Islands in the Sea of Crete, Western Europe is home to over 800 resident, migratory and vagrant birds. From songbirds to gamebirds and from waterfowl to raptors, you can find birds virtually in every nook and cranny of this beautiful area. *All images showcased in this blog series were taken and edited by me.
A Reflections of the Natural World Blog Post Series by Jim Gain
The Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo) is a medium to large-sized raptor with broad wings, a short neck and tail, and a round head.
Physical Characteristics:
The Common Buzzard is a medium-to-large bird of prey, displaying considerable variation in plumage. Here are its key features:
- Size: It measures 40-58 cm in length and has a wingspan of 109-136 cm.
- Weight: Adults weigh between 427-1364 grams.
- Plumage: Most buzzards exhibit dark brown upperparts and head, with variations due to wear. The tail typically shows narrow grey-brown bars and a pale tip. Some individuals may even have white in their tail.
- Underside: The throat is brown-streaked white, leading to a pale U-shaped pattern across the breast. Irregular bars adorn the belly.
Diet:
The Common Buzzard is an opportunistic predator with a diverse menu. Its primary prey includes small mammals, especially rodents like voles. It hunts from a perch, scanning the ground for potential meals.
Abundance and Distribution:
- Global Population: Estimates suggest that the Common Buzzard’s total global population ranges from 2.1 to 3.7 million mature individuals.
- Europe: It appears to be the most common diurnal raptor in Europe, with an estimated 814,000 to 1,390,000 pairs (equivalent to 1,630,000 to 2,770,000 mature individuals).
- Range: Common buzzards occur across Europe, Russia, parts of Northern Africa, and Asia during cooler winter months.
IUCN Red List Status:
The Common Buzzard is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Fortunately, this adaptable bird continues to thrive in various habitats across its extensive range.
For more information, you can explore the IUCN Red List and learn about the conservation status of various species.
COMMON BUZZARD WAS LIFER #794
Reflections of the Natural World 