Observing large birds of prey soaring high overhead often sparks curiosity about their dimensions. These impressive birds, often referred to as “buzzards,” are known for their broad wings and effortless flight. Understanding their size, weight, and wingspan provides insight into their adaptations and ecological role.
Defining “Buzzard”
The term “buzzard” varies significantly by geographical location, leading to confusion. In the Americas, “buzzard” commonly refers to vultures, such as the Turkey Vulture and Black Vulture. These New World “buzzards” are primarily scavengers, feeding on carrion and playing an important role in decomposition. Their physical characteristics are adapted for this lifestyle, including keen senses for locating dead animals.
Conversely, in Europe, Asia, and Africa, “buzzard” denotes a group of medium-sized raptors belonging to the genus Buteo, often called “true hawks” in North America. The Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo) is an example of this Old World group. Unlike their New World counterparts, these birds are active predators, hunting small mammals, birds, and insects. This distinction in diet and behavior is reflected in their different physical attributes.
Measurements of Key Species
The Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura), a New World “buzzard,” has a body length ranging from 25.2 to 31.9 inches (64-81 cm) and weighs about 70.5 ounces (2000 g). Its wingspan is between 66.9 and 70.1 inches (170-178 cm). This wide wingspan allows it to efficiently ride thermal air currents while searching for food.
The Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus), another New World species, is smaller than the Turkey Vulture. Its body length is 23.6 to 26.8 inches (60-68 cm), and it weighs between 56.4 and 77.6 ounces (1600-2200 g). The Black Vulture’s wingspan measures 53.9 to 59.1 inches (137-150 cm). Compared to the Turkey Vulture, the Black Vulture has a shorter tail and wings, leading to more frequent wing flapping during flight.
In the Old World, the Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo) has different dimensions. This raptor has a body length of 17.7 to 25.6 inches (45-65 cm) and a weight ranging from 1.2 to 2.9 pounds (0.55-1.3 kg). Its wingspan is between 43.3 and 51.2 inches (110-130 cm). These measurements classify it as a medium-sized bird of prey within its native range.
Factors Influencing Size
Individual variations in “buzzard” size can be attributed to several biological and environmental factors. Sexual dimorphism is one significant factor, with females of most raptor species typically larger than males. While this size difference is minimal in vultures, it is more pronounced in predatory hawks like the Common Buzzard, where females can be 2-7% larger in length and weigh about 15% more than males. This size disparity may relate to hunting strategies or reproductive roles.
Age also plays a role, as juvenile birds may not reach their full adult size until maturity. Geographic variation can also influence dimensions, with some populations exhibiting size differences due to adaptations to local climates or food availability. For example, Turkey Vultures at the northern limits of their range tend to be larger than those in the neotropics. Beyond these factors, natural individual variation means not every bird fits precisely within average ranges.