Searching online for birds of prey for sale? Raptor birds are an intriguing option for many bird enthusiasts, and amongst the most popular choices for people looking to keep a bird of prey are Common Buzzards.
Common Buzzards are medium to large birds of prey that naturally reside across Europe and some parts of Asia. The Common Buzzard is one of the raptor birds least at threat from extinction, with an estimated 40,000 breeding pairs in Britain alone.
Read on to learn more about Common Buzzard birds of prey.
Birds of Prey In Profile: Common Buzzards Guide
1. Common Buzzards are of average size in terms of raptor birds, reaching around 51-57cm in length and with a wingspan that can reach up to 130cm. In the wild, these birds of prey can reside in several different habits, but will tend to avoid the coldest, harshest landscapes.
2. In terms of natural temperament when it comes to feeding, the Common Buzzard could be described as a crafty opportunist – when it comes to hunting down prey, any type of small animal can be at risk, with this bird of prey more than happy to invade the natural habitat of pheasants, rabbits, snakes, lizards and other small mammals.
3. These birds differ significantly from other raptors as they rarely form large flocks, apart from when they migrate. However, it’s important to bear in mind that Common Buzzards are incredibly territorial and need to be handled extremely carefully during the breeding season – therefore, some level of experience with raptors is recommended before buying this bird of prey.
4. The colouring of these birds can often cause them to be mistaken for Rough-Legged Buzzards and Honey Buzzards, as the common variety has a wide variety of plumages, and there is no standard colouring for the breed. However, most Common Buzzards will exhibit several shades of brown on their plumage.
5. Finally, during the breeding season it’s worth noting that male Common Buzzards have an unusual mating ritual in order to attract partners. Males are famed for carrying out a ‘rollercoaster’ display – rising high into the air before turning and plummeting downwards in a spiral fashion. He will repeat the ritual to further impress his mate.
Find Common Buzzards for sale on Bird Trader