Long-legged Buzzard
NameLong-legged Buzzard
Common NameLong-legged Buzzard
Scientific NameButeo rufinus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)140
Length (cm)60
Weight (g)1100
Plumage DetailsPlumage is highly variable, ranging from very pale sandy to dark brown. Common features include a pale head, often streaked, a pale breast with variable streaking, and darker flight feathers. The undertail coverts are typically rufous, and the tail is often rufous or reddish-brown, sometimes with a dark subterminal band. The legs are feathered down to the tarsi.
Vocalization / CallIts call is typically a drawn-out, mewing 'peee-ooo' or a series of 'kyah-kyah-kyah' notes, similar to other buzzards but often deeper.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, desert, mountain, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds from southeastern Europe, across North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia, east to Mongolia and China. Winters in parts of Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and South Asia.
Identifying FeaturesLong feathered legs, Variable pale to dark brown plumage, Often rufous or reddish-brown tail (though not always visible), Pale head and underparts contrasting with darker flight feathers, Yellow cere and legs
Description
The Long-legged Buzzard is a large raptor typically found in open, arid and semi-arid landscapes. It is known for its variable plumage, often appearing pale overall, and its habit of perching prominently or soaring high while hunting.
