bromerzz wrote: ↑Sun Oct 09, 2022 3:39 pm
It is a juvenile Honey Buzzard. Pernis apivorus. Μελισσοσιάχινο.
Thank you "bromerzz", I think that is the bird. At the moment every day there are loads of bee-eaters, feeding on all the wasps which they can hunt on the next door field. They come early morning and midday to the afternoon. Obviously the Honey Buzzard was following them. What amazes me is the fact that it was still active so late in the afternoon as it was nearly dark. Perhaps it was also disturbed from the large bush fire which happened same time near the Ezousa valley which is near my place.
What Bird Life Cyprus had to say:
"Key information: The Honey Buzzard is a large bird of prey with a slim neck and a small head. There is great variation in its plumage, which makes identification difficult. Typical characteristics include a small head and the broad bands underneath its wings. It is an unusual bird of prey as it feeds on bees and wasps. It visits Cyprus during migration and can be seen in large numbers or in flocks, mainly in the autumn. It is more likely to be seen flying than perched.
Length: 52 – 59 cm | Wingspan: 113 – 135 cm
Habitat: Farmland, scrub and bushes
When they can be seen: Autumn, spring
What they eat: Invertebrates
In Cyprus: Can be seen at Akrotiri Peninsula, Cape Greco and Paphos Plains
Status: Passage migrant"
Max
