The rough-legged buzzard (Europe) or rough-legged hawk is a medium-large bird of prey. It is found in arctic and subarctic regions of North America, Europe, and Asia during the breeding season, and migrates south for the winter. Historically, it was also known as "rough-legged falcon" in such works as John James Audubon's The Birds of America.
Region
Arctic and Subarctic of North America and Eurasia
Typical Environment
Breeds across open tundra, shrub-tundra, and northern bogs from Alaska and Canada through Scandinavia and Siberia. In winter it migrates south to open country such as prairies, coastal marshes, moorland, and agricultural fields. It favors landscapes with ample perches or low relief for hovering and scanning. Winter irruptions can occur when northern rodent populations crash, pushing birds farther south than usual.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Polar
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the rough-legged hawk in North America, it is named for its feathered tarsi that help insulate the legs in frigid climates. It frequently hovers into the wind like a kestrel while hunting. The species shows light and dark plumage morphs and has a striking white-based tail with a dark terminal band.
The tail is white with a dark terminal band.
The legs, but not the toes, are feathered.
The characteristic dark carpal patches ("dark windows"), belly patch, and tail pattern are clearly visible.
Egg from the Museum Wiesbaden
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
soaring glider that also hovers on the wind
Social Behavior
Generally solitary outside the breeding season, though multiple individuals may use the same productive wintering fields. Pairs are typically monogamous and nest on cliffs, bluffs, or raised ground, lining the nest with vegetation and feathers. Breeding success tracks rodent cycles; clutch sizes increase in lemming-rich years.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Usually quiet away from the nest, but during breeding gives mewing, yelping calls and alarm notes. Vocalizations are clear, whistled or catlike, carrying over open tundra.
