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The Mountain Buzzard (Buteo oreophilus) is a small-to-medium raptor (41–48 cm) found in East African montane forests between 2,000–3,800 meters. Often found in pairs, they hunt small mammals, birds, and insects from high, hidden forest perches. Classified as Near Threatened due to habitat loss, they have a limited, fragmented population.

Key Facts About the Mountain Buzzard

Habitat & Location: They reside in mountain forests from Ethiopia through to Malawi, particularly favoring Hagenia and Hypericum woodlands. 

Birds of the World

Appearance: These raptors have dark brown upperparts and heavily streaked underparts with a pale throat. In flight, they show white on the underwings with a dark brown leading edge and a black trailing edge. 

Behavior: They are primarily sedentary (non-migratory) and territorial. They are often seen soaring or perched within the forest canopy, noted for a piercing whistle call. 

Diet: They eat small mammals, reptiles, insects, and occasionally birds, with sightings of them hunting bats at caves in Uganda. 

Breeding: They build stick nests in high trees. Pairs perform dramatic aerial displays (undulating flights) during the breeding season. 

Conservation Status: The Mountain Buzzard is classified as Near Threatened, with a small global population estimated at 670–6,700 individuals. Their numbers are declining due to deforestation and habitat degradation. 

Distinction: Previously considered part of the Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo) or Forest Buzzard (Buteo trizonatus) species, it is now recognized as its own species.