Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo)         

'Bo' is a female Common Buzzard and is currently 23 years old. She used to be flown at the centre but is now retired to an aviary. Many years ago 'Bo' was part of the opening credits of Countryfile on BBC, but after 2 years she was replaced by a butterfly!

As well as 'Bo' we have two other Common Buzzards, 'Sheena' who is at least 30 years old and 'Tash' is our youngest at 20 years old. Both are now also retired to aviaries.

In the wild

Origin: Very widespread species, being found from Iberia to China. 

Diet: Rabbits, smaller mammals, insects and especially carrion. They will occasionally catch birds.

Habitat: Varied mix of tree-covered and open ground, most typically forest edge and small woods.

There is high variation in plumage colouration of individuals, from very light to dark.