{"id":36338,"date":"2024-04-29T08:22:47","date_gmt":"2024-04-29T06:22:47","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/cadc62ce-7733-44a9-b95b-6e32eff36034"},"modified":"2024-04-29T09:39:23","modified_gmt":"2024-04-29T07:39:23","slug":"whats-the-difference-between-a-buzzard-and-a-kite","status":"publish","type":"rss_feed","link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbccountryfile\/rss_feed\/whats-the-difference-between-a-buzzard-and-a-kite\/","title":{"rendered":"What’s the difference between a buzzard and a kite?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Whether you’re a birdwatcher, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about wildlife, identifying the differences between buzzards and kites will help to identify these majestic birds of prey in the wild. <\/p>

By <\/p>

Published: Monday, 29 April 2024 at 06:22 AM<\/p>

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While they share some similarities, such as their predatory nature and impressive aerial abilities, understanding their unique characteristics can help distinguish between the two species.<\/p>

Buzzards (left) and kites (right) often can be seen together. Credit: Getty<\/figcaption><\/figure>

What the difference between a buzzard and a kite?<\/h2>

Often seen with kites<\/a>, buzzards<\/a> are similar in behaviour, habitat, size and appearance. However there are differences that will help identify each bird of prey.<\/p>

Watch these magnificent birds of prey in action as a group of red kites swoop down to steal a buzzard’s prey. Credit: Getty<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>

Tail shape<\/h3>

The most obvious difference is the tail \u2013 the buzzard\u2019s is fanned and rounded off, the kite\u2019s distinctly forked and constantly twisting. <\/p>

\"difference<\/figure>

Wings<\/h3>

Buzzards are bulkier and more compact, with broad wings and, although variable in colour (from very dark to cream) they are usually a uniform brown, lacking the white \u2018wrists\u2019 and notched angles of the kites\u2019 longer wings. <\/p>

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Looking at wings can help tell the difference between a buzzard (shown above) and a kite. Credit: Getty<\/figcaption><\/figure>

Flight patterns<\/h3>

Buzzards are steadier and more purposeful in flight, with their wings raised in a shallow \u2018v\u2019. Kites tend to glide more. <\/p>

Prey<\/h3>

Kites and buzzards evolved together in their own specialised \u2018ecological niche\u2019 that overlaps, yet allows them to thrive in the same habitat. <\/p>

Buzzards also mainly eat worms<\/a> and carrion (their stronger bill allows them to open up bigger carcasses that red kites can\u2019t, but will later feed on). Buzzards can also tackle slightly larger prey, such as rabbits<\/a> and some birds. <\/p>

Nests<\/h3>

They nest in similar habitat to kites, building nests in large trees. Red kites are social birds, adapted to feeding in more urban settings, so it is common to see greater numbers of kites together, particularly where they are fed. <\/p>

Want to find out more?<\/h4>

Check out our expert guides on red kites<\/a>, as well as other features detailing the differences between animals, including rabbits and hares<\/a> and pony vs horse<\/a>. <\/p> <\/body><\/html>\n

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