African Cuckoo-Hawk vs Common Buzzard

In short

The African Cuckoo-Hawk and Common Buzzard can be distinguished by their structure and plumage. The African Cuckoo-Hawk has a more slender build with longer wings and tail, while the Common Buzzard is stockier with a broader wingspan. Plumage in the Common Buzzard is highly variable but generally lacks the rufous tones often seen in the African Cuckoo-Hawk.

Identification tips

• Look for the slender build and longer wings and tail of the African Cuckoo-Hawk.
• Note the stockier build and broader wingspan of the Common Buzzard.
• Observe plumage: Common Buzzard is variable but generally lacks rufous tones.

Size

The African Cuckoo-Hawk is more slender with longer wings and tail compared to the stockier Common Buzzard.

Plumage

The Common Buzzard's plumage is highly variable but generally lacks the rufous tones that can be present in the African Cuckoo-Hawk.