Little Sparrowhawk
NameLittle Sparrowhawk
Common NameLittle Sparrowhawk
Scientific NameAccipiter minullus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)45
Length (cm)25
Weight (g)100
Plumage DetailsAdults have dark grey upperparts, head, and back, often with a distinctive white patch on the rump. The underparts are white with fine rufous or grey barring. The tail is dark with white bars, and the eyes, cere, and legs are bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallA high-pitched, rapid 'kew-kew-kew' or 'kik-kik-kik' call, often given in alarm or during display flights.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from South Africa north to Ethiopia and west to Angola, inhabiting woodlands, savannas, and even suburban gardens.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size for a raptor, Dark grey upperparts with a white rump patch, White underparts with fine barring, Bright yellow eyes, Yellow cere and legs
Description
The Little Sparrowhawk is a small, agile raptor found in sub-Saharan Africa. It typically perches quietly in trees, scanning for prey, and is known for its swift, direct flight when hunting small birds and insects.
