Common Buzzard (also known as Eurasian Buzzard)

The Common Buzzard is a medium-to-large raptor with a broad wingspan and short, fan-shaped tail. Its plumage is notoriously variable, ranging from nearly white to dark chocolate brown, typically with a barred tail.

Under red lighting, the natural pigments are obscured, but the pattern shows a light-colored terminal or sub-terminal tip with distinctive dark transverse banding (barring) along the length.

Strongly pennaceous and tightly interlocked with developed hooklets; somewhat plumulaceous (fluffy) near the base of the calamus.

Matte and slightly stiff surface. The vane is cohesive, providing the necessary air resistance for steering during flight.

Distinctive dark horizontal bars on a lighter background; broad, sturdy rachis; rounded tip indicative of Buteo rectrices.

Highly adaptable species found in woodlands, open farmland, meadows, and occasionally moorland or urban outskirts.

Widespread throughout Europe and Asia; mostly resident in temperate regions, while northern populations are migratory.

Generalist apex predator and scavenger; controls rodent populations and removes carrion from the ecosystem.

Red-tailed Hawk (distinguished by reddish hue and different barring), European Goshawk (finer, more frequent barring), and Honey Buzzard (differs in bar spacing).

Common Buzzards are known for their 'mewing' call which sounds like a cat. They are highly territorial and often seen soaring in thermals.

Fair to Good; some visible wear and fraying at the edges (vane separation), suggesting a naturally molted feather rather than a fresh one.