Common Buzzard (Eurasian Buzzard)

The Common Buzzard is a medium-to-large raptor with broad, rounded wings and a short neck. Its plumage is notoriously variable, ranging from almost pure white to very dark brown. This feather exhibits the classic 'barred' pattern of a paler-phase individual.

Creamy white base with three distinct, chocolate-brown transverse bars and a darker grey-brown terminal wash at the tip. The barring is slightly irregular, which is typical for Buteo buteo plumage variation.

The distal portion is pennaceous (tightly interlocked), while the proximal half is highly plumulaceous (downy and fluffy) for thermoregulation.

Smooth and firm at the tip; exceptionally soft and silky at the base. The surface has a matte appearance with no iridescence.

Transverse brown bars on a white background, a large downy base comprising nearly half the feather length, and a rounded tip lacking the stiffness of a wing feather.

Found in a variety of landscapes including woodland, moorland, scrub, and increasingly in urban parks and farmland with scattered trees.

Resident throughout the United Kingdom year-round. Widespread across Europe and Asia, with northern populations migrating south but UK birds being mostly sedentary.

Apex predator and scavenger; they play a vital role in controlling rodent populations and cleaning up carrion.

Red Kite (feathers usually more rufous/red-toned), Sparrowhawk (smaller, more delicate barring), and Honey Buzzard (vein structure and barring spacing differs).

The Common Buzzard was once heavily persecuted in the UK, but after the ban on certain pesticides and increased protection, its population has soared, making it a frequent sight soaring on thermals.

Good condition; the barbs are mostly intact though the plumulaceous section is somewhat ruffled. Minimal wear suggests a relatively recent molt.

Park in UK