Cape Verde BuzzardButeo bannermaniWhere and when to see them

The Cape Verde buzzard is an island-endemic raptor with a small, fragmented population. Formerly grouped with the common buzzard, it is now widely recognized as a separate species. Its broad wings suit soaring above steep volcanic terrain, where updrafts reduce the effort needed to search for food. It is not widespread across every island, and its restricted distribution makes habitat degradation, persecution and other local pressures disproportionately important to its future.

Size

45-50 cm long

Weight

Not reliably established

Lifespan

Not reliably established

Status

Endangered

Buzzards search from elevated perches or circle on rising air, dropping toward prey detected on open ground. Individuals and pairs may repeatedly use the same slopes and valleys. During the breeding period, adults become more closely associated with nesting territories and can display above them. Cliff nests are vulnerable to disturbance from close approaches, while distant soaring birds may be difficult to identify confidently without sustained views of shape and plumage. Courtship displays, involving aerial maneuvers such as sky-dancing and undulating flights, can be observed during the breeding season. Pairs often maintain a relatively large home range, which they will defend against other raptors. Young birds typically fledge around May to July and remain dependent on parents for some time.

• It is endemic to the Cape Verde archipelago.
• It was formerly treated as a subspecies of the common buzzard.
• Volcanic slopes provide rising air that supports energy-saving soaring.
• Its scientific name commemorates ornithologist David Armitage Bannerman.

This is a resident bird, with no migration-based visitor season. November to April generally offers comfortable conditions for inland viewpoints, although wind and cloud can obscure upland slopes. Breeding timing should not be inferred from this travel window, and nesting territories require particular restraint. The breeding season typically extends from February to June, with eggs usually laid between March and May. During this time, adults are particularly sensitive to disturbance near nesting sites. Outside of breeding, they are present year-round across their island habitats.

Rugged volcanic uplands, rocky valleys and open agricultural mosaics provide hunting terrain. Cliffs and suitable trees can offer nesting or perching sites. Although some habitat lies near coasts, the most useful searches often involve inland slopes rather than flat beaches or busy waterfronts. This subspecies is endemic to the Cape Verde islands, with its range restricted to these specific Atlantic archipelago habitats. Although present on several islands, population density varies significantly depending on local topography and human disturbance. It often prefers higher altitudes and less developed areas.

Small vertebrates, especially rodents and reptiles, form much of the likely prey base, supplemented by other available animals and carrion. Detailed quantitative diet information is limited. Like related buzzards, it uses opportunistic hunting rather than depending on one narrowly defined prey species. Insects, such as large beetles and grasshoppers, are also consumed, particularly when small vertebrates are less abundant. Occasional reports suggest the taking of small birds, especially nestlings or fledglings. Carrion consumption can be more frequent during periods of food scarcity.

Common name

Cape Verde Buzzard

Scientific name

Buteo bannermani

Animal group

Birds

Size

45-50 cm long

Weight

Not reliably established

Lifespan

Not reliably established

Status

Endangered

Identification

Its broad-winged, short-tailed buzzard shape separates it from local falcons and fork-tailed kites, although plumage alone does not reliably distinguish it from all visiting Buteo buzzards. The Cape Verde buzzard generally presents with darker plumage variants compared to some mainland European buzzards, often exhibiting a uniform dark brown back and prominent barring on the undersides of the flight feathers. Pay attention to the underwing pattern and tail banding which can aid in distinguishing it from other raptors, though individuals show considerable variation. Size and overall robust structure also help differentiate it from smaller raptors.