The pale Buzzard retreats
We are at Challacombe Farm when we see four Buzzards overhead. It’s that time of year again, when there are territorial battles and mating displays:
It’s not the best of weather and the light’s poor, but I’m still hopeful of seeing something spectacular. I’m not disappointed. One of the Buzzards has taken exception to a rival perching in the large pine tree and has decided to dive as fast as possible at it from high above with its talons showing. They tumble down to the ground together.
Next, the rival is flying away as fast as possible. It’s a pale form of the Common Buzzard, a plumage which is the source of much identity confusion.
I love seeing a retreating rival flying, as they always have that head-up flying stance, presumably because it gives them better vision, rather than having their view restricted by their own wings. We watch it retreat into the far distance. As does the victor.
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