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Common Buzzard (Eurasian Buzzard)
Flight feather, likely an outer secondary or inner primary remige

Common Buzzard (Eurasian Buzzard)

Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Accipitriformes, Family: Accipitridae, Genus: Buteo, Species: B. buteo

Family: Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, Kites, and Old World Vultures)

Shape
Asymmetrical vane with a curved, tapered profile and a rounded tip typical of soaring raptors
Size
Estimated at approximately 8 to 10 inches long, consistent with medium-sized raptor flight feathers
Rarity
Common and widespread throughout its natural range
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Description

A medium-sized raptor with broad wings and a short, rounded tail, known for its effortless soaring flight and distinctive mewing call

Colour & Pattern

Featuring a whitish or pale greyish base with distinct dark brown or blackish barring and a dark tip, characteristic of Buteo wing feathers

Barb Structure

Pennaceous with tightly interlocked barbs and barbicels forming a strong, durable vane; intact condition with minimal fraying

Texture & Surface

Stiff, smooth, and matte texture with rigid vane structure designed to withstand aerodynamic pressure during flight

Key Features

Distinctive barred pattern with contrasting pale base and dark brown terminal band on a robust, asymmetrical flight feather

Habitat

Inhabits a wide range of open country, agricultural lands, moorlands, and deciduous or mixed forests

Geographic Range

Widespread throughout temperate Europe and parts of Asia, extending into North Africa

Ecological Role

Acts as an apex predator and scavenger, helping control small mammal and rodent populations within its ecosystem

Similar Species

Other raptors such as the Honey Buzzard or Rough-legged Buzzard, distinguished by specific fine barring and coloration details

Interesting Facts

Common Buzzards are highly adaptable raptors that frequently use thermal currents to soar for hours with minimal wing flapping

Condition Notes

Good condition with minor wear along the trailing edge and tip, representing a naturally molted feather

Common Buzzard (Eurasian Buzzard) | Feather Identifier