Phylum Chordata Rank Species | Higher classification Buteo | |
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Similar Bird, Buteo, Long‑legged buzzard, Pallas's fish eagle, Butastur | ||
The upland buzzard (Buteo hemilasius) is a species of bird of prey in the family Accipitridae.
Contents
- Upland buzzard
- Description
- Taxonomy and systematics
- Distribution and status
- Behaviour and ecology
- References
Upland buzzard
Description
This is the largest buzzard, though it is equaled in size by the North American ferruginous hawk. The total length is 57–67 cm (23–26 in) and wingspan is 143–161 cm (57–64 in). Weight is about 1350 grams (3 lbs) on average. with both pale and dark morphs. Similar in plumage to others buzzards. Pale morph has lightly marked whitish head, nape and underparts with large brown spots irregularly distributed in upper breast and abdomen. Flanks and sides of the belly dark, tail with greyish centre and dark sides, tail bands prominently dark, with heavier sub-terminal band. Tarsi is fully (or at least three-quarters) feathered brown. Dark morph bird has the upper parts, lower body and wing coverts solid dark, with the flight feather pattern similar to pale morph.
Taxonomy and systematics
This species was first described by Temminck and Schlegel in 1844 and is monotypic. Currently considered to form a superspecies with Buteo rufinus as they do not interbreed, though their ranges overlap.
Distribution and status
It is found in Bhutan, China, Hong Kong, India, Pakistan, Iran, Japan, Kazakhstan, North Korea, South Korea, Mongolia, Nepal, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
Behaviour and ecology
Normally found in open montane grass lands and cultivation in summer, wintering to lower altitudes. Frequently hovers. Hunts from air or ground. Breeds between April and August on crags and ledges of cliffs. Nest is made of sticks and well lined. Feeds on small mammals, birds and insects.
