Long-legged Buzzard look-alikes

Key differences

Long-legged Buzzard is generally larger and more robust. It typically has a paler head, more rufous underparts (especially the belly and undertail coverts), and a less barred, often plain rufous tail. The feathered tarsi are a key distinction. Common Buzzard often shows a dark trailing edge to the underwing, which is usually absent or less defined in Long-legged Buzzard. Flight is often more powerful and less 'flappy' than Common Buzzard.

Key differences

Upland Buzzard is also large and has feathered tarsi, but typically has a darker, more heavily marked plumage, often with a dark belly band and a more distinctly barred tail. Its range is generally further east in Central Asia. Long-legged Buzzard tends to be paler and more rufous overall.

Key differences

Rough-legged Buzzard also has feathered tarsi but is typically smaller and has a distinct dark carpal patch, a dark belly band, and a white tail with a broad dark terminal band. Its habitat is typically arctic/subarctic tundra and taiga, and it is a winter visitor to more temperate regions.