THE BIRDS OF SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE
HONEY BUZZARD – Pernis apivorus
As with all reports of rare and scarce birds they are subject to ratification by the respective rarities committees
Despite its name Honey Buzzard is not related to the true buzzards in the genus 'Buteo' but is closer to the kites. It is a summer migrant to most of Europe and western Asia wintering in tropical Africa. It is a specialist feeder living mainly on the larvae and nests of wasps although it will take other small prey. The specific name 'apivorus' means 'bee-eater', although bees are much less important than wasps in its diet. It has been suggested that the similarity in plumage between juvenile Honey Buzzard and Common Buzzard has arisen as a partial protection against predation by Goshawks.
There have been six Honey Buzzard reported from S. Gloucestershire, they are;
c.1879: (2)
Two were 'obtained' near Tortworth sometime around this date. The were kept for some time in Gloucester Museum but were eventually destroyed. (cf. Mellersh - Birds of Gloucestershire 1902 p. 15).
1991: (1)
On May 26th a passage migrant was identified in flight west across the Severn Estuary at New Passage.
1996: (1)
On September 2nd at Severn Beach a single bird in flight heading east-north-east.
2007: (2)
One was reported on May 24th at 15:20 flying low in a northerly direction near the Severn View Motorway Services and then out across the Severn Estuary towards the Forest of Dean; One was reported flying east over Aust Village on August 11th.