Large raptor -white chest

Question

Seen last Sunday (8th Jan) at Junction 16 M6. 
 Distinctive feature was white chest. It was large. perched by roundabout. 
 It looked Osprey like but the time of year is obviously wrong. 
 Any suggestions? I always think Buzzard when I see a large bird of prey, do some have white fronts? 
 Nick

KatTai · Accepted Answer

Yes, buzzard colouration varies greatly so it is entirely possible it was a buzzard. Some can be dark, others pale, one round here has a very white speckled chest. The behaviour also matches a buzzard, so I'd say it was most likely to be a common buzzard :-)

TeeJay · Answer

I agree with Kat. Take a look at the photos that were posted of a Buzzard on this thread. It shows just how white chested they can be. 
 www.rspb.org.uk/.../62710.aspx

Nick Murphy · Answer

Thanks. That's what I thought, I just couldn't find any images of a white breasted buzzard.