Spectacular Common Buzzard Fight

Occurred on December 1, 2016 / Dohr, Eifel, Germany

Info from Licensor: "The fight between common buzzards (Buteo buteo) over food on the ground is a dramatic and intense display of aggression, dominance, and survival instinct. Such conflicts are especially common in winter when food is scarce, particularly around carrion or other valuable food sources.

When two or more buzzards encounter a meal, the confrontation usually begins with a series of threat displays. The birds puff up their feathers to appear larger, lower their heads slightly forward, and spread their wings in an imposing stance. Sharp, piercing calls often accompany these displays as a way of intimidating the opponent.
As the tension rises, the birds may engage in feints and short lunges, testing each other’s resolve. A dominant buzzard will attempt to assert control by moving forward aggressively, forcing the rival to retreat. If neither bird backs down, the encounter escalates into a full-blown physical fight.

During combat, buzzards use their powerful talons to strike and grab at each other, often locking claws in mid-air or on the ground. In some cases, they become entangled, wrestling fiercely while flapping their wings to maintain balance. These battles can last several seconds to minutes, with each bird trying to overpower the other.

Eventually, the weaker individual submits and withdraws, often flying away while emitting loud, frustrated calls. The victorious buzzard then secures its meal, while the defeated bird is forced to search for another opportunity.
These fights, though intense, rarely result in serious injuries, as they primarily serve to establish dominance rather than inflict harm. For buzzards, such encounters are a crucial part of survival, particularly in harsh conditions where every meal can mean the difference between life and death."