Lizard buzzard

Introduction: Little is known of the general habits of the lizard buzzard (Kaupifalco monogrammicus) who inhabit savannah woodland, perching in a tree, or under cover. The destruction of woodland is the main contributing factor to their demise, although they are not a threatened species.

Distribution: North and north-eastern scattered Namibia populations including the Caprivi, Etosha National Park.

Diet: Forages from perch over long ground, catching prey after a short swoop to the ground. Takes lizards from trees and walls. Eats mostly small snakes, lizards, frogs, rodents, grasshoppers, spiders and on rare occasions small birds.

Description: Monogrammicus refers to the single mark, signed, on the throat.

Breeding: Male and females build nest made of sticks and lined with green leaves, pine needles and grass. Between 1 and 3 white to greenish, oval eggs are laid and incubated for around 33 days.

Size: 36cm.

Weight: 300g