Eurasian Sparrowhawk (also known simply as the Sparrowhawk)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Accipitriformes, Family: Accipitridae, Genus: Accipiter, Species: Accipiter nisus
Family: Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Old World Vultures)
- Shape
- Highly asymmetrical vane, typical of a flight feather, with a rounded tip and a distinct notch (emargination) on the leading edge (outer vane) to facilitate maneuverability and lift.
- Size
- Approximately 18-22 cm in length. This is consistent with an adult female Eurasian Sparrowhawk; males are significantly smaller (about 25% smaller than females).
- Rarity
- Common. It is one of the most widespread birds of prey in the UK, though their secretive nature makes them harder to see than buzzards.
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Description
The Eurasian Sparrowhawk is a small, agile hawk with short, broad wings and a long tail, adapted for flying through dense vegetation. Females have brown upperparts, while adult males have slate-grey backs and a characteristic rufous (orange-red) barring on the chest.
Colour & Pattern
Charcoal grey-brown base with 5-6 distinct, wavy horizontal white bands. The ventral (underside) is paler and more translucent. The banding is crisp and regular, typical of accipiter flight feathers.
Barb Structure
Mostly pennaceous and tightly interlocked for flight efficiency, with hooklets (barbicels) providing a rigid surface. The base shows a small amount of plumulaceous (downy) structure for insulation.
Texture & Surface
Smooth, stiff, and slightly glossy on the upper surface. The feather feels firm to the touch, designed to withstand the air pressure of rapid, flapping flight.
Key Features
The combination of the dark grey-brown color and the very clean, white horizontal banding (bars) on an asymmetrical flight feather is diagnostic for this species in the UK.
Habitat
Woodlands, forest edges, and increasingly gardens or urban parks with mature trees where they can ambush prey.
Geographic Range
Found throughout the UK and Europe, trailing across temperate Asia. In the UK, they are year-round residents, though northern European populations may migrate south.
Ecological Role
Apex avian predator of small birds (tits, finches, sparrows). They act as a vital regulator of songbird populations and are excellent indicators of environmental health.
Similar Species
Common Kestrel (more pointed, reddish-brown/buff tones), Northern Goshawk (much larger, heavier banding), and Common Cuckoo (feathers can look similar but are shaped differently and less stiff).
Interesting Facts
The Eurasian Sparrowhawk exhibits extreme sexual dimorphism; the female can be twice as heavy as the male, allowing the pair to hunt different-sized prey and reducing competition between mates.
Condition Notes
Good condition. The edges show slight wear/fraying, suggesting it was naturally molted recently. No significant parasite damage or fault bars are visible.
Notes
St Neots, UK