Now the commonest and most widespread UK bird of prey. It is quite large with broad, rounded wings, and a short neck and tail. When gliding and soaring it will often hold its wings in a shallow 'V' and the tail is fanned. Birds are variable in colour from all dark brown to much paler variations, all have dark wingtips and a finely barred tail. Their plaintive mewing call could be mistaken for a cat.
Key ID Features
Variable in colour from brown to almost white.
Soars in circular trend on rising thermals but may appear to hover into a headwind.
Finely barred pale underwings and tail with dark wing tips and trailing edges.
Wings held slightly raised in flight.
Overview
Scientific name: Buteo buteo
Family: Hawks, vultures and eagles (Accipitridae)
Where to see them:
Greatest numbers in Scotland, Wales, the Lake District and SW England, but now breeding in every county of the UK. Found in most habitats particularly woodland, moorland, scrub, pasture, arable, marsh bog and villages. May even be seen in towns and cities including Glasgow. Look for birds soaring over wooded hillsides in fine weather, or perched on fence posts and pylons. In some areas they are known as the tourists’ eagle, often being mistaken for this larger bird of prey.
Seen in UK:
All year round. Birds soar, display and call most in spring.
What they eat
Small mammals, birds and carrion. And even earthworms and large insects when other prey is in short supply.
Text (c) RSPB, used with permission
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Photographer: Tim Tapley
