European Honey Buzzard (Penris apivorus) **

The European Honey Buzzard (Pernis apivorus) is a sleek and agile raptor renowned for its unique feeding habits and aerial prowess. Unlike traditional raptors, the Honey Buzzard primarily feeds on the larvae, pupae, and nests of social insects, particularly wasps and hornets, earning it its distinctive name. With its slender body, long wings, and deeply forked tail, this bird of prey is perfectly adapted for maneuvering through dense forest canopies in pursuit of its insect prey. Found across much of Europe and into parts of Asia and Africa during migration, the European Honey Buzzard is a migratory species, spending the summer breeding season in temperate forests and then migrating to warmer regions for the winter. Despite its preference for secretive nesting sites and elusive behavior, the European Honey Buzzard is a symbol of ecological balance, playing a vital role in controlling insect populations and maintaining the health of forest ecosystems.