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 to and fro 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
itself, so did the buzzard.
