Buzzards are no longer considered rare in their strongholds of the West Country, Wales, and Scotland. In fact, they have become the commonest raptor in these areas, having recolonized all the territories they occupied in the 1800s. This is a remarkable conservation success story as the buzzard population has significantly increased in recent years.
In terms of their distribution, almost all suitable habitat in the West Country, Wales, and Scotland is now occupied by buzzards. This means that if you visit these regions, you are very likely to spot a buzzard soaring through the sky or perched on a tree branch, scanning the ground for prey.
However, it is important to note that buzzards may still be considered rare in some areas outside of their strongholds. In other parts of the United Kingdom or Europe, their populations may not have fully recovered or they may face different ecological challenges that limit their numbers. Therefore, the abundance of buzzards can vary depending on the specific location.
From a personal perspective, I have had the pleasure of observing buzzards in the West Country of England. While spending time in the countryside, I have frequently spotted buzzards circling overhead or perched on fence posts. Their distinctive mewing call is often heard echoing across the fields, adding a sense of wildness to the landscape.
The increase in buzzard populations can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the banning of pesticides such as DDT, which caused population declines in many bird species, including raptors, has had a positive impact on buzzards. Secondly, legal protection and conservation efforts have helped to safeguard their habitats and reduce persecution. changes in land use, such as the reduction in intensive agriculture and the creation of more suitable habitats, have provided a favorable environment for buzzards to thrive.
While buzzards were once considered rare, they have made a remarkable comeback and are now the commonest raptor in their strongholds of the West Country, Wales, and Scotland. They have recolonized all their historical territories and almost all suitable habitat in these areas is now occupied by buzzards. Although their abundance may vary in other regions, the overall increase in buzzard populations is a testament to successful conservation efforts and changes in land management practices.