Diaries of Barmoor
By Brian Bowman - 17 October 2010
BUZZARDS AT BARMOOR
In recent weeks a Buzzard has been seen, with increasing regularity, on and over the grounds of the park. Although Buzzards can be seen throughout the year over the mixed open land which surounds the park, they have not been seen within the grounds before.
The Buzzard's diet consists of small mammals, principally rabbits, sometimes small birds, earthworms, insects, and even berries have been recorded. Rabbits are currently plentiful on the well-kept lawns of the park and this may be the attraction.
Buzzards are large bulky birds (20-22 inches in length) and have a wingspan of 3.75 to 4.25 ft (the Complete Birds of Britain & Europe/Rob Hume). They characteristically soar to great heights on their broad wings, tail spread to maximise the use of the rising thermals. Essentially a bird of the open country and "Big Skies", the Buzzard will nest in trees, or on ledges. The species is single brooded, and the young fledge at around 7 weeks. The call of the adult bird is highly-pitched, and not unlike that of a Gull.
Early in October a Buzzard was seen soaring over South Lawn before gliding over towards Palm Lawn, following a couple of circuits it eventually settled on the tall Leylandii. On 12th October it was over Peter's Pond: it's presence being heralded by a squadron of noisy Jackdaws from the Castle. Not being unduly troubled by the scolding-mob, it was escorted to the top of "The" Lebonese Cedar on Cedar Lawn.
At the time of writing, only single birds have been noted. But earlier in the year a group of five or six were present over the undeveloped land at the end of Cannon Lawn.
NB Keep an eye to the sky Mr Rabbit!!
