Buteo hemilasius
The Upland Buzzard, *Buteo hemilasius*, is a magnificent raptor of the Asian high plateaus, notable for being the largest true buzzard (*Buteo* species) in its expansive range. Measuring between 57-72 cm (22-28 inches) in length with an impressive wingspan of 143-162 cm (56-64 inches), females can weigh significantly more than males, reaching up to 2.9 kg (6.4 lbs). Its plumage is highly variable, ranging from pale to dark morphs, but key identification features include a diagnostic pure whit...
Found primarily in high-altitude open habitats including mountain steppes, alpine meadows, open grasslands, plateaus, and rocky slopes, typically between 1000 and over 5000 meters above sea level.
Their diet primarily consists of small to medium-sized mammals such as pikas, marmots, voles, hamsters, and ground squirrels, supplemented opportunistically with birds, lizards, and large insects.
Upland Buzzards are diurnal raptors, often observed soaring on thermals, perching on prominent rocks or pylons, and remarkably, hovering like a large kestrel while hunting. Their foraging strategy involves scanning for prey from a high vantage point, or by hovering, then making a swift, powerful ...
The Upland Buzzard boasts a vast breeding range across Central Asia, encompassing Mongolia, much of western and northern China (including Tibet, Xinjiang, and Inner Mongolia), southern Siberia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. It also breeds within the higher elevations of the Himalayan mo...
Least Concern
- The Upland Buzzard is one of the few raptors with fully feathered tarsi (legs covered in feathers down to the toes), a unique adaptation for its cold, high-altitude environment. - Despite its large size, this species is an exceptional hoverer, often seen hanging motionless in the air like a gia...