Levant Sparrowhawk
NameLevant Sparrowhawk
Common NameLevant Sparrowhawk
Scientific NameAccipiter brevipes
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)71.5
Length (cm)33.5
Weight (g)217.5
Plumage DetailsAdult males have slate-grey upperparts and finely barred rufous-brown underparts, often appearing pale grey with faint barring from a distance. Females and immatures are browner above with more prominent dark barring on the underparts, sometimes with a rufous wash. The cere and legs are yellow.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of a rapid, high-pitched 'ki-ki-ki-ki' or 'kew-kew-kew' call, often given during display flights or when agitated.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in southeastern Europe and western Asia, including the Balkans, Turkey, and parts of Russia. It migrates south to winter primarily in northeastern Africa (Sudan, Ethiopia) and parts of the Arabian Peninsula.
Identifying FeaturesSlate-grey upperparts (male), Finely barred pale underparts, Yellow cere and legs, Relatively short wings, Distinctive migratory behavior in large flocks
Description
The Levant Sparrowhawk is a medium-sized raptor with a compact build and relatively short wings. It is a highly migratory species, often seen in large flocks during its seasonal movements between breeding and wintering grounds.
