How are Buteos typically described?

Buteos are typically described as having robust bodies and short to medium-length tails. This physical characteristic allows them to be powerful fliers, which is essential for their hunting strategy. Buteos are often associated with soaring flight, where their sturdier body provides strength and stability as they glide on thermals looking for prey. Their body shape and tail length contribute to their ability to maneuver effectively during flight, especially when descending rapidly to capture prey.

In contrast, the other options describe characteristics that do not align with the typical features of Buteos. Long, pointed wings are more characteristic of other raptor families, such as accipiters, which are designed for fast, agile flight in wooded environments. The description of longer tails compared to their wings is not accurate for Buteos, as their tails are relatively shorter. While some Buteos can be trained for falconry, that is not a defining trait of the family and is more situationally dependent.