Discovering the Common Buzzard
As a bird enthusiast and nature guide, I'm always thrilled to share the wonders of our avian friends. Today, let's explore the life of a truly fascinating raptor, the Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo vulpinus), also known as the Steppe Buzzard or in Afrikaans, Bruinjakkalsvoël.
A Raptor's Realm
Native to Europe and parts of Asia, the Common Buzzard is a medium - to - large bird of prey with an impressive range. This species, belonging to the genus Buteo in the family Accipitridae, thrives across diverse habitats, from the forests of Europe to the steppes of northwestern China and Mongolia.
One of the most captivating aspects of the Common Buzzard is its versatility as a resident and migrant. In milder regions, they stay year - round, while those in colder areas migrate south during winter, some reaching as far as South Africa.
The Buzzard's Migration
Typically, Common Buzzards are visitors that favor the South African spring, lingering until the late summer or early autumn. Their migration is a fascinating subject, especially considering that some individuals might defy the norm by overwintering in South Africa.
This deviation sparks a myriad of questions and mysteries, further adding to the allure of these birds.
The Buzzard's Hunting and Nesting Habits
Predominantly feeding on small mammals, especially rodents like voles, the Common Buzzard showcases its hunting prowess by often striking from a perch. Their nesting habits are equally intriguing, with a preference for trees and a strong sense of parental duty.
What sets the Common Buzzard apart is its status as the most common diurnal raptor in Europe, with a global population estimated in their millions.
The Taxonomic Tale
The Common Buzzard's scientific journey began with Carl Linnaeus in 1758, but it's the work of Bernard Germain de Lacépède in 1799 that solidified its place in taxonomy.
The Latin name buteo reflects its Buzzard identity, distinct from the Turkey Vulture often called a Buzzard in American English.
A Global Presence
The Buteoninae subfamily, primarily from the Americas, has seen its members, like the Common Buzzard, spread across Eurasia and Africa. Interestingly, DNA studies link the Common Buzzard closely to the Red - Tailed Hawk of North America, indicating shared ecological niches.
A Closer Look
The Common Buzzard's subspecies are fascinating in their diversity. The western buteo group, mainly resident or short - distance migrants, includes races like B. b. buteo in Europe and B. b. rothschildi in the Azores.
The eastern vulpinus group, such as B. b. vulpinus, migrates long distances and exhibits remarkable color morphs.
Appearance and Behavior
In terms of appearance, Common Buzzards vary significantly in plumage, typically showing round heads, long wings, and a short tail. They are known for their soaring flight and perching habits, spending considerable time inactively perched.
Breeding and Reproduction
Breeding habits of Common Buzzards are intriguing. They generally lay 2 - 6 eggs, with the female mostly responsible for incubation. The young, after hatching, stay close to the nest and gain independence about 6 - 8 weeks post - fledging.
Conservation Status
Despite historical threats like persecution and habitat loss, the Common Buzzard remains one of the most populous birds of prey. Its adaptability and resilience have ensured a stable population, making it an important bioindicator for environmental health.
Conclusion
The Common Buzzard's journey through diverse landscapes and its adaptability in hunting and nesting highlight the resilience and beauty of these raptors. As nature enthusiasts, it's our privilege to witness and protect these magnificent birds, ensuring their continued place in our skies.
About The Author
Kyle Grobler is a passionate environmentalist and esteemed field guide from Potchefstroom. With an unparalleled love for nature, he boasts a vast collection of over 40,000 photos, illustrating his particular affinity for birds.
Known by many as the embodiment of a true bushman, Kyle has ventured through various South African game reserves and frequently explores the Vaal River's hidden treasures. As a new contributor to the Potch Gazette's environmental page, readers can anticipate immersive tales of Potchefstroom's natural wonders through Kyle's expert lens.
To see more from Kyle and his bush experiences you can also view his Youtube Channel here: Kyle Grobler Photography
More Bird Stories
For more articles about birds you can click on the links below, there are so many great birds living amongst us to discover and learn about as they play a major role in nature as we see it today.
Southern Ground Hornbill: Click Here
Secretary Bird: Click Here
Crucial Role of Birds Within Ecosystems: Click Here
African Ground Eagle: Click Here
Vultures: Click Here
African Fish Eagle: Click Here
The Roller Family: Click Here
The Kingfisher Family: Click Here
The Bee - Eater Family: Click Here
The Turaco Family: Click Here
A Day In The Life of Birds: Click Here
The Bateleur Eagle: Click Here
Spotted Eagle - Owl: Click Here
Martial Eagle: Click Here
Tawny Eagle: Click Here
Blue Crane: Click Here
Flamingos: Click Here
The Big 6: Click Here
Wahlbergs Eagle: Click Here
Grey Heron: Click Here
Narina Trogon: Click Here
Pale Chanting Goshawk: Click Here
Scops Owl: Click Here
Grey Headed Gull: Click Here
Red - Billed Oxpecker: Click Here
Greater Crested Tern: Click Here
Village Weaver: Click Here
Yellow - Billed Kite: Click Here
Yellow - Billed Stork: Click Here
Water Thick - Knee: Click Here
Spectacled Weaver: Click Here
Lesser Masked Weaver: Click Here
African Wood Owl: Click Here
Three Banded Plover: Click Here
Burchell's Coucal: Click Here
Yellow - Billed Oxpecker: Click Here
Fiscal Shrike: Click Here
Knob - Billed Duck: Click Here
Pin - Tailed Whydah: Click Here
Grey - Headed Bushshrike: Click Here
African Mourning Dove: Click Here
Glossy Ibis: Click Here
Black Chested Snake Eagle: Click Here
Trumpeter Hornbill: Click Here
Brown Snake Eagle: Click Here
Crowned Hornbill: Click Here
Southern Banded Snake Eagle: Click Here
Southern Masked Weaver: Click Here
African Cuckoo Hawk: Click Here
African Stonechat: Click Here
Marsh Owl: Click Here
African Pygmy Kingfisher: Click Here
Striped Kingfisher: Click Here
Whimbrel: Click Here
Cape Weaver: Click Here
Pied Kingfisher: Click Here
Malachite Kingfisher: Click Here
Yellow Weaver: Click Here
Marsh Harrier: Click Here
Helmeted Guineafowl: Click Here
Grey Go - Away - Bird: Click Here
Kori Bustard: Click Here
Pink - Throated Twinspot: Click Here
Scarlet Chested Sunbird: Click Here
Ruff: Click Here
White - Backed Vulture: Click Here
Yellow Throated Longclaw: Click Here
White - Crested Helmetshrike: Click Here
African Darter: Click Here
Pied Avocet: Click Here
Indian Peafowl: Click Here
Rufous Naped Lark: Click Here
Blue Cheeked Bee - Eater: Click Here
African Harrier - Hawk: Click Here
Speckled Pigeon: Click Here
African Jacana: Click Here
Woodward's Batis: Click Here
Black - Bellied Bustard: Click Here
Denham's Bustard: Click Here
Brown - Hooded Kingfisher: Click Here
Eastern Nicator: Click Here
Spur - Winged Goose: Click Here
White - Eared Barbet: Click Here
Comments, Suggestions, Stories
Please do feel free to add any comments in our comments section below, we always love to hear about great birds and experiences from our readers.
