Madagascar Sparrowhawk
NameMadagascar Sparrowhawk
Common NameMadagascar Sparrowhawk
Scientific NameAccipiter madagascariensis
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)57.5
Length (cm)35.5
Weight (g)235
Plumage DetailsJuveniles, like the one pictured, have dark brown upperparts heavily spotted with white, especially on the wing coverts, and heavily barred white and brown underparts. Adults have dark grey-brown upperparts and white underparts with rufous barring. Both sexes have bright yellow eyes and a yellow cere.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a rapid series of high-pitched 'ki-ki-ki' notes or a more drawn-out 'kweee-kweee' sound.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to Madagascar, found throughout the island in suitable forested and wooded habitats.
Identifying FeaturesEndemic to Madagascar, Typical Accipiter silhouette (short, broad wings; long tail), Bright yellow eyes and cere, Juveniles show white spotting on dark brown upperparts and barred underparts, Adults have dark grey-brown upperparts and rufous-barred white underparts
Description
A medium-sized raptor endemic to Madagascar, characterized by its typical Accipiter build with short, broad wings and a long tail. Juveniles display distinctive white spotting on dark upperparts and barred underparts, while adults are dark grey-brown above with rufous-barred white underparts. It is an agile hunter, primarily preying on small birds within its forested habitats.
