Rough-legged Hawk
Rough-legged Hawk
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The Rough-legged Buzzard is a medium-sized raptor that breeds in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions, migrating south to temperate zones for the winter. It is distinctive for its frequent hovering flight.
Where to spot
Breeds in tundra, open grasslands, and farmlands across the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. Winters in temperate zones further south.
How to spot
Look for its distinctive hovering flight, often facing into the wind while scanning for prey. Key identification marks include a dark belly patch, dark carpal patches (on the underside of the wing), and a white tail with a broad dark terminal band.
When to spot
Best observed during winter in its non-breeding range, or during spring and autumn migration as it moves between its breeding and wintering grounds.
Where to spot
Breeds in tundra, open grasslands, and farmlands across the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. Winters in temperate zones further south.
How to spot
Look for its distinctive hovering flight, often facing into the wind while scanning for prey. Key identification marks include a dark belly patch, dark carpal patches (on the underside of the wing), and a white tail with a broad dark terminal band.
When to spot
Best observed during winter in its non-breeding range, or during spring and autumn migration as it moves between its breeding and wintering grounds.
Credits:
By Marton Berntsen - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=52667506
Unlike most raptors, the Rough-legged Buzzard has feathers covering its legs down to its toes, an adaptation that provides extra insulation for living in cold, snowy environments.
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