The Gray-faced buzzard (Butastur indicus) is one of the most fascinating predatory birds of the Ryukyu Islands. They are a common species that migrate to Okinawa in the first week of October. I have observed these mid-sized predatory birds feeding on small insects, rodents and lizards.
- Scientific name: (Butastur indicus)
- Common Name: Gray-faced buzzard hawk or eagle
- Distribution: Winters in Okinawa
- Habitat: Forests, parks, farm fields, and local neighbors
- Diet: Lizards, grasshoppers and a variety of insects
- Average Size: 50cm
They are mainly found perching high in trees. Notice how well they blend into the surrounding environment.
They are also found perching high on electrical poles, wires, and rooftops.
Look close and you can see the nictitating membrane, its used to protect and moisten the eye.
I recommend using a telephoto lens to photograph these shy birds. They have a tendency to fly away as soon as you point the camera lens at them.
In recent years I have noticed an increase in the population of these beautiful migratory birds.
People often ask me what is the purpose of conservation photography? Having the ability to affect some form of positive change in the environment and make a global difference with the photographs. Hopefully, the images will inspire people to care more about nature and make a positive difference in the environment.
My Mission: To Document and Preserve the Wildlife of the Ryukyu Islands
This site is also designed to help people identify the beautiful animals of Okinawa, basically to serve as an online nature reference guide. If you would like to make a contribution to support my mission, please click on the donation link paypal.me/maketheswitch4nature
Your donations will help conservation initiatives as well as bring solutions to the worldwide pollution issues on our beautiful shorelines. Thank you for your support, Shawn M Miller.
#MakeTheSwitch4Nature