Common buzzard

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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.

Buzzards have blunt wing tips, and brown plumage which is very variable in shade and pattern. Some birds can be mostly white with brown patches. The legs and talons are yellow.

When to see: all year round

Where to see: throughout Scotland, regularly seeon the wing or on fence posts next to roads

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