The Rough-legged hawk (Buteo lagopus)

The Rough-legged hawk (Buteo lagopus), is also known as the Rough-legged buzzard and is so called because its legs are completely feathered.  This is thought to help protect from rodent bites when it catches prey.  Similar species to the Rough-legged hawk include the Red-tailed hawk, Turkey vulture, Northern harrier, and the Ferruginous hawk.

Rough-legged Hawk - DickDaniels (http://carolinabirds.org/) - CC BY-SA 3.0

Habitat

In the summer the Rough-legged hawk is found in the tundra and and taiga of the northern parts of North America and Eurasia.  In winter it favors marshes, prairies and agricultural regions of Eurasia and North America.  Read more