Forest Buzzard

The forest buzzard (Buteo trizonatus) is a medium-sized bird of prey, which primarily inhabits forested areas in South Africa. This buzzard typically measures around 41-48 cm (16-19 in) in length, with a wingspan of approximately 102-117 cm (40-46 in). The species has greyish-brown upperparts and pale underparts, marked by dark blotches and streaks. The amount of blotches and streaks varies, and some individuals have almost all white underparts and few markings. Its tail is notably barred with a lighter base color.

The forest buzzard can easily be confused with the steppe buzzard (Buteo vulpinus). The forest buzzard is resident all year round, unlike the steppe buzzard, which is a migrant and very common in South Africa in the summer months. From May to August, most observations are most likely to be forest buzzard. The forest buzzard is also more confined to forests and woodlands, and steppe buzzards are typically found in more open areas. In terms of appearance, the forest buzzard display no to very little barring on the underparts, and typically large patches of white (often in a U-shape across the belly), whereas the steppe buzzard show more pronounced barring and a lot less white. Steppe buzzards do show a lot of variation, and particularly juveniles show more blotches and streaks instead of barring, making them look more similar to forest buzzards. 

The forest buzzard thrives in dense forests and woodlands, often near water sources. It has adapted well to the canopy and the lower strata of the forest, making it a skilled hunter in these environments. The diet of this buzzard mainly consists of small mammals, birds, reptiles, and large insects. It employs a sit-and-wait strategy, often perching on a high vantage point to spot prey before swooping down to capture it.

The breeding season for the forest buzzard is mainly during the southern hemisphere’s spring and summer (around September to January). The birds are monogamous and engage in aerial displays as part of their courtship rituals. They build their nests high in trees, using twigs and leaves. The female typically lays 2-3 eggs, which are incubated for about 30-35 days. Both parents partake in raising the chicks, which fledge approximately 40-45 days after hatching. The young birds stay dependent on their parents for a few weeks post-fledging.

The forest buzzard has a limited range and is primarily only found in South Africa. It does not have a large population and is therefore vulnerable to changes in the environment. The population is stable, or possibly increasing due to an increase in eucalyptus plantations (which may benefit the species). It is currently listed as near threatened on the IUCN Red List.