Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Rough-legged Buzzard
Scientific name: Buteo lagopus
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: ACCIPITRIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 30 m
Breeding season / Courtship: N/A
Gestation: N/A
Births: N/A
Habitat:
Tundras, grasslands, agricultural areas
Description:
The Rough-legged Buzzard, or Buteo lagopus, is a medium-sized bird of prey known for its feathered legs, which help it endure cold climates. It features a brown plumage speckled with white, with a white tail barred with black. This raptor is often seen hovering, scanning the ground for prey, mainly rodents. It breeds in arctic and subarctic regions but migrates southward in winter. The Rough-legged Buzzard is a solitary bird, although it can be seen in small groups during migration. It prefers open habitats such as tundras, grasslands, and agricultural areas.
Recommended lens:
>=400mm
Photography tips:
To photograph the Rough-legged Buzzard, focus on open areas where it hunts, such as grasslands or fields. Use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture precise details without disturbing the bird. Be patient and discreet, blending into the environment to avoid scaring it away. The best times for photography are early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and the bird is active.
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