Honey Buzzard
Pernis apivorus
The Honey Buzzard is a rare summer migrant to Britain, typically seen in southern England from May to September, with occasional sightings in other parts of the country. It is a bird of prey that breeds in Europe and western Asia, wintering in Africa, and is a notable sight for British birdwatchers due to its distinctive habits and appearance.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Honey Buzzard in the field.
The Honey Buzzard can be identified at a glance by its broad wings, long tail, and distinctive wing pattern, featuring a pale underside with dark tips and a dark leading edge. Its head and neck are also distinctive, with a pale crown and nape contrasting with a darker face and throat.
The Honey Buzzard is slightly larger than a Common Buzzard, with a similar build to a large raptor.
The male Honey Buzzard has a pale grey-brown back and wings, with a pale underside and a dark grey-brown head and neck, featuring a pale crown and nape, while its plumage remains relatively consistent throughout the year.
The female Honey Buzzard is similar to the male, although she may appear slightly darker and more mottled, particularly on the breast and belly.
The Honey Buzzard's call is a loud, piercing "kee-kee-kee" or "kay-kay-kay", often repeated in a series of three or more notes.
The Honey Buzzard is an insectivorous bird of prey, feeding on wasp nests and other insects, and is known for its agile and swift flight, often soaring and gliding with its wings held in a shallow V-shape.
The Honey Buzzard can be confused with the Common Buzzard, but can be distinguished by its broader wings, longer tail, and distinctive wing pattern, as well as its pale crown and nape, which are not found in the Common Buzzard.
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