Buteo rufinus, commonly known as the long-legged buzzard, is a medium-sized diurnal bird of prey belonging to the order Accipitriformes and the family Accipitridae. It inhabits open landscapes, semi-arid steppes, and mountainous regions. In Türkiye, it has a wide distribution and includes both resident and migratory populations.
Morphological Characteristics
Buteo rufinus is characterized by a robust body and broad wings. It measures 50 to 60 cm in length, with a wingspan ranging from 128 to 150 cm, and it weighs between 900 and 1800 grams. Compared to the common buzzard (Buteo buteo), it is larger and more heavily built, distinguished by its reddish-toned plumage. Its beak has a yellow base with a black tip, and its legs are pale yellow with black talons. Adults have dark eyes, while juveniles exhibit lighter eye coloration. The adult tail is uniformly reddish, whereas juveniles display fine transverse barring. The back and shoulder feathers are brown, often with white edging.
The chest is light-colored, contrasting with darker belly and flank areas. In flight, Buteo rufinus is identifiable by dark carpal patches under the wings and the striking black-and-white pattern of the primary feathers. From above, the pale rump and upper tail contrast clearly with the darker back. Females tend to be slightly larger than males. There are color morphs ranging from light to dark; dark morphs typically show pronounced tail bands and a marked contrast between the belly and body.
Long-legged Buzzard (Pexels)
Distribution and Habitat
Buteo rufinus ranges from Central and Southern Europe to Central Asia, and from North Africa to India. Türkiye is an important breeding and migratory stopover area for the species. It is frequently observed in Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Anatolia. Preferred habitats include open fields, slopes, steppes, and mountain foothills. The species favors nesting in rocky outcrops and treeless plains rather than wooded areas.
Behavior and Ecology
Typically solitary or found in pairs, Buteo rufinus may form larger groups during migration. It is well known for soaring flight, circling broadly while utilizing thermal updrafts to gain altitude. Its flight features slow, powerful wingbeats, and it can hover or hang in the wind to scan for prey. Though takeoff from the ground can appear cumbersome, the bird is agile and capable of swift dives in the air. It hunts by observing from high above, then capturing prey with a rapid talon strike. This hunting strategy allows it to effectively pursue both moving and stationary prey.
Diet
The diet mainly consists of small to medium-sized terrestrial vertebrates. Rodents such as voles (Microtus spp.), ground squirrels, and rabbits form the bulk of its prey. It also frequently feeds on reptiles, including lizards, snakes, and skinks. Small birds and nestlings are occasionally taken, and large insects and other invertebrates can supplement its diet.
Reproduction
Breeding occurs from March to May. Nests are generally built on rocky ledges or tall trees. Females lay 2 to 4 eggs, with an incubation period of about 30 days. The young fledge and become capable of flight within 45 to 50 days. Both parents participate actively in feeding and caring for the chicks. The species typically breeds once per year.
Conservation Status
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists Buteo rufinus as “Least Concern.” It is commonly observed throughout Türkiye. However, local populations face threats from agricultural pesticides, power lines, illegal hunting, and habitat loss. Protecting natural habitats and mitigating human impacts are essential for the species’ continued survival.
