Facts, Information, Scientific Name of Common Buzzard
A raptor bird that gives a great performance of Sky Dance to claim its Territory.
Name – Common Buzzard
Scientific name – Buteo buteo
Size – 40cm – 58cm.
Distribution–
Common Buzzard is a widespread Bird. The Bird resides in Europe, Magnolia and Asia. Due to the Migratory habit, it travels over a longrange upto Siberia. This bird can survive in Cold,Temperate (Medium) as well as Tropical climates (Hotter Climates).
Habitat-
Common buzzards can be seen in Grasslands, Forests, Rock areas, Agricultural lands as well as near sea coasts.
Appearance-
Common Buzzard is a Kite bird-like Bird in appearance. But the Tail is round in shape. The body is covered in feathers that are Brown, White, Black and greyish. The toes are yellow. When seen in flight, this bird has a Black and white lined pattern on its wings as well as its tail.
Call of Buzzard is like a cat meow.
Habits-
Common Buzzard is Solitary (stays alone)in nature.But this is also a social bird in the Juvenile stage. It means Common Buzzards hunt in groups when they are young. They hunt but usually fly slowly near the ground. These birds also sit on the top of the tree and then have a flight towards targeted prey on the ground.
They can be seen gliding(flying with the slow speed of wind) in the afternoon with the help of hot (thermal) air. These Birds appear gliding on Woodlands, Grasslands, Agricultural land or any open areas.
Food-
Common Buzzards can hunt small Animals like Rats, Rabbits.
They also feed on Insects and Earthworms. Their hearing capacity is good, as they can hear the movement of their prey animals on the ground.
Mating Habits-
These Birds are sexually mature at the age of 3 years.Common Buzzard male showcases his flight to attract the Common Buzzard Females in the months of March to May. The Male Bird can fly ‘up’ and ‘down’ or take unique turns in Flight to get the attention of the Female.
Nest-
The Nest is a ‘Platform Nest’. The Platform nest are a flat or open nest in which large Birds like Common Buzzards land easily with the Flight. The Nest is made up of a bulk of Sticks. The outer layer is decorated with Green leaves. The Female lays 2-4 eggs and Incubates them for 38 days. Male Common Buzzard provides food to hatchlings, and the young Common Buzzards get ready to be on their own after 14-16 weeks.
Ecological Importance-
Common Buzzard has a role in Environment. The Bird catches and hunts a lot of small prey such as a mouse, and small animals. These help in maintaining the overgrowth of Mice, which can destroy the Crops.
Also See ⇒ Cinereous Vulture Facts