[3] This extends to morphological associations, e.g. the lizard buzzard has pointed and fairly short wings.

[4] Despite the lizard buzzard inhabiting Africa, phylogenetic evidence indicates that its closest relatives are the two Microspizias hawks of Central and South America.

The juvenile lizard buzzard resembles the adult, the only variations are slight brown tinge to the wings with an orange yellow cere and legs.

[6][7] Lizard buzzards are solitary and silent raptors, except for early in breeding season (September and October) when they produce a clear, distinct and melodious whistle klu-klu-klu.

There is very limited soaring flight, which only occurs during courtship displays or on rare non-breeding occasions in the late morning.

Lizard buzzards will also compete with Shikras for available nests,[9] since these have a similar size, habitat preference and distribution.

[9][10][11] The reasons for raptor decline in Africa are rapid human population growth driving overexploitation of the land causing biodiversity loss and a decreased species richness.

In West Africa the grasshopper buzzard, black kite and hooded vulture have increased in number and range.

[12] Similarly in the Western Cape of South Africa, the steppe buzzard, lesser kestrel and yellow-billed kite have increased range and number.

[11] Currently there is insufficient data on the Lizard Buzzard to determine its adaptation to human land usage.

Its preferred prey insects, lizards and rodents remain common in most human altered landscapes which could account for its current survival.