Common Buzzard

Buteo buteo

The buzzard is the most common bird of prey in UK. Its large size (wingspan of over a metre) distinguishes it from other hawks, however it is considerably smaller than an eagle, with which it is often confused.

The buzzard is a slow flier and unlikely to catch prey on the wing, however it is a patient predator and its markings provide excellent camouflage which enable it to sit in trees for hours waiting for a small rodents to pass.

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Discover more about the Common Buzzard

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When to see

Buzzards can be seen all year round and are active during the day. They are most seen during the spring when they are calling and displaying.

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Where to see

Throughout Scotland, regularly seen on the wing or on fence posts next to roads. They are found in most habitats, woodland, grasslands, moorland and farmland. 

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Did you know?

They can often be seen sitting in fields as they stamp their feet on the ground to attract earthworms, to eat.

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Related species

Golden Eagle

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

Buzzards can be seen all year round and are active during the day. They are most seen during the spring when they are calling and displaying.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

Throughout Scotland, regularly seen on the wing or on fence posts next to roads. They are found in most habitats, woodland, grasslands, moorland and farmland. 

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?

They can often be seen sitting in fields as they stamp their feet on the ground to attract earthworms, to eat.

Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Golden Eagle

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

Buzzards can be seen all year round and are active during the day. They are most seen during the spring when they are calling and displaying.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

Throughout Scotland, regularly seen on the wing or on fence posts next to roads. They are found in most habitats, woodland, grasslands, moorland and farmland. 

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?

They can often be seen sitting in fields as they stamp their feet on the ground to attract earthworms, to eat.

Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Golden Eagle

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