Buzzard
The buzzard is our largest and most graceful bird of prey, preferring wooded hillsides. The buzzard is easily distinguished from all other species of hawk by its size alone. The wingspan may vary between 48 inches to 60 inches with a body length of some 20 inches. Its plumage is a rich brown, with lighter markings beneath. In flight the wings have a ragged, moth-like appearance as this bird glides at a tremendous height. It is a slow flier, and has little chance of catching its prey on the move. The usual tactics which it adopts is to perch motionless on a branch of a large tree, its markings being excellent camouflage, rendering it almost invisible. It is a patient bird, quite content to sit for hours at a time until a young rabbit, a rat or a mouse chances to pass beneath it. Then it will swoop down on to its unsuspecting prey. The 'mewing' of the buzzard is unmistakable as it soars in the sky, calling frequently. Wood pigeons and songsters flee at its appearance, yet rarely do they fall prey to this large hawk. For many years this bird was persecuted by game preservers who believed that it was detrimental to both pheasants and partridges. However, seldom does it bother with game, although if a poult happens to venture close to where it is lying in wait, it will swoop down on it. Yet, the buzzard does not exist in such numbers for it to be a constant danger to the game preserves, and quite rightly it has been placed upon the list of protected birds. Fortunately, at this present time, buzzards are on the increase. Extinction was feared during the crisis years of myxomatosis when this bird's staple diet was almost non-existent. However, as the rabbit population re-established
Size: 3830px × 3351px
Location: Cheshire, UK
Photo credit: © Intellifix / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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