Oriental Honey-buzzard
NameOriental Honey-buzzard
Common NameOriental Honey-buzzard
Scientific NamePernis orientalis
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)150
Length (cm)61
Weight (g)1100
Plumage DetailsPlumage is generally greyish-brown on the upperparts, with paler underparts that can be variably barred or spotted. The head is typically grey, and the eyes are a distinctive reddish-brown to red. The long tail features two or three broad dark bands.
Vocalization / CallOften silent, but can emit a high-pitched, drawn-out 'pee-ee-wee' or 'klee-yew' call, particularly during the breeding season or when agitated.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across East Asia, including Siberia, Mongolia, China, Korea, and Japan. Migrates south to Southeast Asia, India, and Sri Lanka for the non-breeding season, with some populations being resident.
Identifying FeaturesSmall, pigeon-like head, Reddish eyes, Long tail with broad dark bands (typically 2-3), Greyish head (especially in males), Specialized diet of wasp and bee larvae
Description
The Oriental Honey-buzzard is a medium-sized raptor known for its specialized diet of wasp and bee larvae. It has a relatively small head, long neck, and a long tail, often seen soaring gracefully over forested areas.
