Eurasian Sparrowhawk

Accipiter nisus

Genus · True Accipiters Family · Hawks, Eagles, and Kites
Observation tips Difficulty: MODERATE
Best time
🕒 Any
Activity
☀️ Diurnal
Best months
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Observation habitat
Forest deciduousGardenUrban

Often seen as a sudden 'blur' passing through a garden. Look for the 'flap-flap-glide' flight pattern and the long, thin yellow legs.

Eurasian Sparrowhawk

♂ Male · ♀ Female

Stats
Wingspan55–80 cm
Weight110–380 g
Length28–41 cm
Lifespan wild4–10 yrs
Size
XS
S
M
L
XL
Nesting
Nest typePlatform
Clutch size3–6 eggs
Incubation32–35 days
Breeding months
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Regional Status (Europe)
LC
Least Concern (Europe)
IUCN Red List
MigrationPartial migratory
Social BehaviourMonogamous pairs

Diet: Carnivore

🦅Birds
🐭Mammals

Habitat

🌲 Forest coniferous🌳 Forest deciduous🏡 Garden🏙️ Urban
✦ Fun Fact

The size difference between the sexes is extreme. A large female can be twice the weight of a small male. This allows them to hunt different prey species within the same territory.

About

A small but formidable bird of prey. The Sparrowhawk is a master of ambush. It specializes in hunting small birds within woodlands and suburban gardens. This slim raptor has short, broad wings and a long tail. This build allows for exceptional maneuverability through dense foliage. It is a secretive inhabitant of forests but is now frequently seen in residential areas due to the abundance of prey at bird feeders.

Behaviour

The Sparrowhawk relies on the element of surprise. It often flies low along hedgerows or over fences to snatch prey before it can react. Its hunting style is a high-speed dash from a concealed perch. Despite its predatory nature, it is often 'mobbed' by smaller birds. Crows or swallows use loud calls and dive-bombing to force the hawk to leave the area.

Sexual Dimorphism

♂ Male

Smaller and sleeker with slate-grey upperparts. The underparts are finely barred with a distinct orange-red tint. The eyes are often striking orange or red.

♀ Female

Significantly larger with brownish-grey upperparts. The underparts are white with coarse grey-brown barring. It lacks the male's red tones and features a prominent pale 'eyebrow' stripe.

Similar species

Common Kestrel
🐦
Common Kestrel
Falco tinnunculus
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