Wildlife

Wild Common Buzzard Welfare and Recovery

Common buzzards have recovered strongly across the UK following DDT bans and legal protection, and their welfare is broadly positive relative to historical persecution.

Key Facts

Buzzard populations declined dramatically under DDT and persecution before the 1970s
Recovery has been remarkable - they are now the UK's most common large raptor
Illegal persecution including poisoning continues on some grouse moors
Buzzards are territorial and require sufficient prey rabbits and small mammals
Road casualties are a significant mortality cause as buzzards feed on carrion

Welfare Considerations

Buzzards killed by secondary poisoning from rodenticides or deliberate persecution die preventable deaths. Road casualties while feeding on carrion are an inherent risk of their scavenging behaviour. The overall welfare trajectory is positive given population recovery, but illegal persecution remains a significant welfare concern in some upland areas.

What You Can Do

Report suspected buzzard poisoning to police and RSPB
Slow down on rural roads where buzzards may be feeding on roadkill
Support enforcement of raptor protection legislation