The size of the bird commonly known as the buzzard depends heavily on geography, but the answer always involves impressive physical dimensions. Whether referring to the medium-sized hawk of Europe or the much larger scavenging bird of the Americas, these raptors are built for a life spent soaring high above the landscape. Their large body size, particularly their expansive wingspan, is a defining characteristic that facilitates their aerial existence. This physical magnitude is directly related to their survival strategies, allowing them to survey vast territories efficiently.
Defining the “Buzzard”
The term “buzzard” carries a different meaning depending on whether one is in the Old World or the New World, which significantly affects the perception of its size. In Europe, Asia, and Africa, a buzzard is a medium-sized bird of prey belonging to the genus Buteo, often called a hawk in North America. These species, such as the Common Buzzard, are active predators that hunt live prey. Conversely, in the Americas, “buzzard” is the common name used for species of vultures, which are large scavenging birds.
The New World buzzards (vultures) belong to the family Cathartidae and are not closely related to the Buteo hawks, despite their superficial resemblance. This historical confusion arose when early European settlers mistakenly applied the name of their familiar Old World raptor to the soaring vultures they encountered. Therefore, discussing buzzard size requires considering both the smaller European raptor and the much larger American scavenger.
Standard Measurements of Common Species
To quantify the size, it is necessary to examine the metrics of common species from both geographical groups. The Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo), the most widespread Old World species, is a medium raptor with a body length typically ranging from 17.7 to 25.6 inches. Its weight is comparatively modest, generally falling between 1.2 and 2.9 pounds, with females often being larger than males. The wingspan of the Common Buzzard stretches between 43 and 55 inches (3.5 to 4.5 feet).
The New World species are considerably larger. The Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) measures between 24 and 32 inches in length. This scavenger weighs from 1.8 to 5.3 pounds, though the average weight is often around 4.4 pounds for larger northern individuals. The wingspan of the Turkey Vulture is substantial, generally reaching between 63 and 72 inches (5.25 to 6 feet).
Another common American scavenger, the Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus), is slightly shorter and stockier than its Turkey Vulture cousin. Its body length is typically between 22 and 29 inches. Black Vultures are often slightly heavier, with a weight range of 3.5 to 6.6 pounds. Their wingspan measures between 52 and 66 inches (4.3 to 5.5 feet).
Significance of Buzzard Size for Flight
The large dimensions, particularly the broad wingspan, are a specialized adaptation for aerial hunting and scavenging. Their size allows them to maximize atmospheric conditions for movement, conserving energy over long distances. The broad, rounded wings are optimized for soaring flight.
Buzzards and vultures rely on rising columns of warm air, known as thermals, to gain altitude without expending muscular energy. By catching thermals, they circle upward to great heights, covering vast territories while searching for food. Their relatively light body weight, especially in proportion to their wingspan, contributes to a low wing loading, allowing them to remain airborne with minimal flapping. This energy-efficient travel is fundamental to their role as wide-ranging foragers.