sparrowhawks

Sparrowhawks are small to medium-sized birds of prey in the genus Accipiter, characterized by their slender bodies, short broad wings, and long tails, which enable swift flight through dense woodlands. The name is most closely associated with the Eurasian sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus), widely found across Europe and Asia; in some regions related small accipiters are also referred to as sparrowhawks.

Adults range in size usually 24–34 cm in length, wingspan about 50–70 cm, and weight roughly 110–260 g, with females larger than males. Plumage varies by species and sex: males typically have blue-grey upperparts and rufous or pale underparts, while females are brown above with pale, streaked underparts. Juveniles are brown-streaked overall. All have a rounded head and sharp, hooked beak.

Found in a variety of wooded habitats, from mature forests to hedgerows, gardens, and urban parks, sparrowhawks prefer environments with a network of trees or hedges that allow stealthy ambush attacks on small birds.

Primarily eat small birds such as sparrows, finches, and thrushes, and occasionally large insects. They hunt by perching, then sprinting through openings to seize prey; some species may pursue prey through tangled branches at high speed.

Breeding typically in spring; nests on tree branches; clutch size usually 4–6 eggs; incubation about 32 days; nestlings fledge after 4–5 weeks.

Conservation status generally of least concern; widespread and common across its range. Local declines have occurred in some regions due to habitat loss and pesticide use, but populations are overall stable. Sparrowhawks are valued as natural controllers of small bird populations and are indicators of healthy woodland ecosystems.