Species profile
About this species
The Common Buzzard is a medium-to-large bird of prey found widely across Europe & Asia, with a broad, rounded wingspan typically spanning 109-136 cm. It displays highly variable plumage, ranging from pale cream to dark brown, often with a distinctive pale band across the chest. A versatile predator & scavenger, it feeds on small mammals, earthworms, & carrion, & is frequently seen perched on fence posts or soaring on thermals.
Common Buzzards favour a mosaic of woodland & open country, including farmland, moorland edges, & river valleys. They are commonly found in areas with mature trees for nesting alongside open ground for hunting, & are widespread across the British countryside including upland & lowland regions.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Common Buzzard with us in Europe, Hungary, Poland & Spain.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, David Miles, Ian Roberts, Pui Hang Miles & Robin Lowry helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Spring & early summer are ideal, when birds are active around nesting territories & displaying in flight. Early morning hours offer the best light & increased activity as birds begin hunting after roosting overnight.
Position yourself near open farmland or woodland edges where buzzards regularly perch on fence posts & telegraph poles, allowing close approach with a telephoto lens of 400-600mm. Shoot during overcast conditions to avoid harsh shadows on the bird's variable plumage & to achieve more even exposure. Practise panning techniques when birds are soaring on thermals, using continuous autofocus & a fast shutter speed of at least 1/1000s to freeze wing movement.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Common Buzzard
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.