UKBirds

Rough-Legged Buzzard

Buteo lagopus

The Rough-legged Buzzard (Buteo lagopus), called the Rough-legged Hawk in North America, is a medium-large bird of prey. It is found in Arctic and Subarctic regions of North America and Eurasia during the breeding season and migrates south for the winter.

The species exhibits a wide variety of plumage patterns including light and dark morphs. Nests are typically located on cliffs, bluffs or in trees. Clutch sizes are variable with food availability but 3-5 eggs are usually laid. These hawks hunt over open land, feeding primarily on small mammals. Along with the Kestrels, Kites and Osprey, this is one of the few large birds of prey to hover regularly.

This fairly large raptorial species is 48-60 cm (19-24 in) with an average wingspan of 120-153 cm (47-60 in). Individuals can weigh from 600 to 1,800 g (1.3 to 4.0 lb) with females typically being larger and heavier than males. The plumage is predominantly brown in colour and often shows a high degree of speckling. A wide variety of plumage patterns are exhibited in light vs. dark morphs, males vs. females and adults vs. juveniles. Extensive field experience is required to distinguish between certain plumage variations. Compared to its more common cousins, the Common Buzzard and the Red-tailed Hawk, it is slightly larger, though may be outweighed by the latter.

Compared to the Common Buzzard, it is longer-winged and more eagle-like in appearance. Distinguishing characteristics in all plumages include long white tail feathers with one or more dark subterminal bands. The wing tips are long enough to reach or extend past the tail when the animal is perched. Its feet are feathered to the toes (hence its scientific name, lagopus, meaning "hare-footed") as an adaptation to its arctic home range. Lagopus is derived from Ancient Greek lago, meaning "hare", and pous, meaning "foot". Its talons are relatively small, reflecting their preferred choice of prey. A broad brown chestband is present in most plumages and a square dark carpal patch contrasting with the white under-wing is an easily identifiable characteristic in light morph individuals.

It is the only hawk of its size to regularly hover over one spot, by beating its wings quickly.