The term “buzzard” often brings to mind large birds of prey, yet its meaning varies significantly depending on location. This article explores the distinct appearances of birds commonly called buzzards, providing details to help identify these creatures. Understanding their physical traits and flight styles offers a clearer picture of these diverse avian species.
Regional Interpretations of “Buzzard”
The word “buzzard” carries different meanings across continents. In North America, it frequently refers to vultures, such as the Turkey Vulture and Black Vulture, known for scavenging. In Europe, Asia, and Africa, “buzzard” typically denotes a type of hawk from the Buteo genus. These “true buzzards” are predatory birds, distinct from vultures in diet and physical adaptations.
Physical Characteristics of True Buzzards
True buzzards, members of the Buteo genus, are medium to large raptors with a robust build. They generally possess broad, rounded wings and a relatively short tail. Their plumage varies significantly, often appearing in shades of brown, mottled, or streaked, with paler undersides that can feature distinct dark bands across the chest.
A true buzzard’s head is rounded and fully feathered, complementing its stout, hooked beak. Their eyes are dark brown or yellow, and they have strong talons on yellow legs. When perched, their relatively long wings may reach or fall just short of the tail tip. These features give them a powerful, hawk-like appearance.
Appearance of North American “Buzzards” (Vultures)
In North America, “buzzards” primarily refer to Turkey Vultures and Black Vultures. Turkey Vultures are large, dark brown birds with a noticeable featherless red head in adults and a pale bill. Their undersides often appear two-toned in flight, with darker body feathers contrasting with silvery-gray flight feathers. They can have a wingspan approaching 1.7 to 1.8 meters.
Black Vultures are generally smaller than Turkey Vultures, with an average wingspan of 1.3 to 1.7 meters. They have entirely black plumage, including a featherless, wrinkled grayish-black head and neck. Unlike Turkey Vultures, Black Vultures have a short, square tail and often display white patches near their wingtips when in flight.
Distinguishing Features in Flight
Observing “buzzards” in flight provides clear identification cues. True buzzards often exhibit a steady, powerful flight, using slow wing beats alternating with gliding phases. When soaring, they typically hold their broad wings in a shallow V-shape or flat, utilizing thermals to gain altitude. Their overall silhouette appears compact and stable, with a relatively short, fanned tail.
North American vultures display different flight characteristics. Turkey Vultures are known for their distinctive “teetering” or wobbly flight, often rocking side-to-side while soaring. They hold their wings in a pronounced V-shape, called a dihedral, which helps stabilize them in turbulent air. Black Vultures, in contrast, hold their wings flatter or in a shallower V-shape during glides and tend to flap their wings more frequently and in shorter bursts. Turkey Vultures also have a longer tail compared to the short, square tail of the Black Vulture.