Image for Buteo buteo (Common Buzzard)

Buteo buteo (Common Buzzard)

The Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo) is a medium-sized bird of prey found across Europe and parts of Asia. It has broad, rounded wings and a sturdy body, often showing a mix of brown, black, and white plumage that provides effective camouflage. It primarily hunts small mammals, birds, and insects by soaring on thermals, using keen eyesight to spot prey from high above. The buzzard nests in tall trees or on cliffs, with a gentle, mewing call. It plays a vital role in ecosystems by controlling pest populations and is adaptable to various habitats, including woodlands, farmland, and open countryside.