Accipimini

Accipimini is a tribe of birds of prey within the family Accipitridae. It is typically composed of small to medium-sized hawks known as accipiters, with the genus Accipiter (sparrowhawks and goshawks) forming the core of the group. In some classifications, the exact composition of Accipimini varies because molecular phylogenies have reshaped relationships within Accipitridae, and several authorities treat accipiters within a broader or differently defined set of tribes.

Distribution and habitat: Members occur worldwide, chiefly in wooded habitats such as forests, woodlands, and shrublands, where they hunt by perching and surprise attacks.

Description: Accipiter species are generally compact with short, rounded wings, long tails, and strong legs. Plumage tends to be cryptic, with many species showing vertical streaking or bands on the chest and pale underparts.

Behavior and diet: They are predominantly bird-eaters, taking small passerines and other small vertebrates. They hunt by stealthy perches and rapid short flights through trees, or by pursuing prey in open woodland edges.

Reproduction: Nests are built in trees, typically high above ground. Laying 2–4 eggs is common, with both parents involved in incubation and rearing.

Systematics notes: The tribe’s boundaries are debated in modern classifications, with some taxonomies recognizing Accipimini as defined here, while others place accipiters in different tribal arrangements or subfamilies. Ongoing molecular work continues to clarify the relationships among accipiters and related hawks.