Upland buzzard facts for kids

The upland buzzard (Buteo hemilasius) is a large and powerful bird of prey that lives in parts of Asia. It belongs to the Accipitridae family, which includes many well-known birds like eagles, hawks, and kites. These birds are known for their sharp eyesight and strong talons, which they use for hunting.

About the Upland Buzzard

The upland buzzard is a fascinating bird that spends its life in open areas. It is often seen soaring high in the sky, looking for its next meal. These birds are important predators in their habitats, helping to keep the populations of small animals in check.

Where Do They Live?

Upland buzzards are found across a wide range of Asia. They live in countries like Mongolia, China, Kazakhstan, and parts of Russia. During the winter, some of them fly south to warmer places like India and Southeast Asia. They prefer open landscapes such as grasslands, steppes, and mountains, where they can easily spot their prey from above.

What Do They Eat?

These buzzards are carnivores, meaning they eat meat. Their diet mainly consists of small mammals like rodents, voles, and pikas. They also hunt small birds, lizards, and sometimes even large insects. They are skilled hunters, using their sharp talons to catch their prey. They often perch on a high spot, like a tree or a rock, to watch for movement below.

How Big Are They?

Upland buzzards are quite large birds. They can be about 50 to 65 centimeters (20 to 26 inches) long, with a wingspan that can reach up to 140 to 160 centimeters (55 to 63 inches). Females are usually a bit larger than males. Their feathers are mostly brown on top, with lighter colors on their belly. They have strong, hooked beaks and powerful feet.

Family Life: Reproduction

Upland buzzards usually build their nests on cliffs, rocky outcrops, or sometimes in trees. Both parents help to build the nest, which is made of sticks and branches, lined with softer materials like grass or fur. The female typically lays 2 to 4 eggs. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs, which means keeping them warm until they hatch. Once the chicks hatch, both parents work together to feed and protect them until they are old enough to fly and hunt on their own. This usually takes several weeks.

Amazing Facts

• Upland buzzards are known for their powerful flight. They can soar for long periods without flapping their wings, using air currents to stay aloft.
• Their eyesight is incredibly sharp, allowing them to spot tiny prey from very high up in the sky.
• They are sometimes called "Mongolian buzzards" because a large part of their breeding range is in Mongolia.

Images for kids

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  A portrait of the upland buzzard.

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  An upland buzzard in flight.

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  An upland buzzard in Tibet.

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  An upland buzzard nest.

See also

In Spanish: Busardo mongol para niños