Butastur indicus
The Grey-faced Buzzard, *Butastur indicus*, is a captivating medium-sized raptor that bridges the gap between true buzzards (*Buteo*) and accipiters (*Accipiter*), earning it the moniker 'hawk-buzzard'. Adults typically measure 41-48 cm in length with a wingspan of 100-115 cm, featuring a distinctive ash-grey head and upper breast that contrasts sharply with a dark brown back and prominent white throat. Their underparts are white, heavily barred with rufous or chestnut, especially on the bell...
Primarily found in open woodlands, forest edges, cultivated areas with scattered trees, and secondary forests, typically from lowlands up to 1,500 meters.
Their diet is highly varied, consisting mainly of large insects (cicadas, locusts), amphibians (frogs), reptiles (lizards, snakes), small mammals (rodents), and occasionally small birds and crustaceans. They primarily forage via perch-hunting.
Grey-faced Buzzards are generally solitary outside of migration, where they famously form large, spectacular kettles. During the breeding season, pairs are monogamous and establish territories. Courtship may involve aerial displays, including soaring and diving. Nests, constructed from sticks and...
The Grey-faced Buzzard breeds across a broad expanse of East Asia, including Japan (from Hokkaido south to Kyushu), the Korean Peninsula, northeastern China, and the Russian Far East (Ussuriland). Following the breeding season, they undertake a significant southward migration, overwintering throu...
Least Concern
- The Grey-faced Buzzard is often referred to as a 'hawk-buzzard' due to its intermediate characteristics between true hawks and buzzards. - It is one of Asia's most recognizable migratory raptors, undertaking epic journeys between its breeding grounds and wintering areas. - During migration, the...