Japanese Sparrowhawk
NameJapanese Sparrowhawk
Common NameJapanese Sparrowhawk
Scientific NameAccipiter gularis
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)56
Length (cm)26.5
Weight (g)150
Plumage DetailsAdult males have slate-grey upperparts, a dark head, and reddish eyes, with white underparts often showing rufous barring on the flanks. Females are browner above with more prominent barring on the underparts. Juveniles are typically browner with streaking below.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of high-pitched 'kew-kew-kew' or 'ki-ki-ki' calls, particularly during the breeding season.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across East Asia, including Japan, Korea, China, and parts of Russia, migrating south to Southeast Asia for the winter months.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size for a raptor, Slate-grey upperparts (male), Reddish eyes (adults), Barred underparts (especially female and juvenile), Swift, agile flight, Long tail and short, rounded wings
Description
The Japanese Sparrowhawk is a small and agile raptor, known for its swift flight and ability to hunt small birds. It is a migratory species, breeding in East Asia and wintering in Southeast Asia.
