Augur Buzzard
by Mitch Shindelbower
Title
Augur Buzzard
Artist
Mitch Shindelbower
Medium
Photograph
Description
The Augur Buzzard (Buteo augur) is a 55–60 cm long African bird of prey. The taxonomy on this species is confusing, with some taxonomists considering this species, the Jackal Buzzard, and the Archer's Buzzard to be the same superspecies. Many taxonomists consider them all to be distinct, having different calls, different home ranges and variations in plumage. This is a species of mountains (most typically at about 2000 m altitude, but up to 5000 m), and adjacent savannah and grassland. It is resident and non-migratory throughout its range. It is normally found from Ethiopia to southern Angola and central NamibiaPairs have noisy aerial displays, including outside the breeding season. The large (up to 1 m wide) stick nest is built in a tree or on a crag, and is often reused and enlarged in subsequent seasons. Two creamy or bluish white eggs are laid and incubated by the female only, although food is brought to her on the nest by the male.
The eggs hatch in about 40 days, and after a further 56–60 days they can attempt flight. At 70 days they become independent of the nest, but young birds may then be seen with the adult pair for some time.
The diet of the Augur Buzzard is mainly small ground mammals, but snakes, lizards, small ground birds, insects, and road-kill are also taken. Typically, the raptor drops on its prey from a perch or hover.
Uploaded
January 19th, 2014
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Comments (19)
Sandi Mikuse
Oh good lord, Mitch....I don't know how you do it, but you have gotten some absolutely stupendous shots, here! I just LOVE this....a total favorite my friend! L/F
Mitch Shindelbower replied:
Thank you So much for all the kind words and support Sandi they are all ways very appreciated !!
Marvin Spates
Wow such a lovely looking bird!! I always think of buzzards as looking ugly!!! Nice write up on your photo too!!! LF