Black Sparrowhawk

The Black Sparrowhawk, also known as the Black Goshawk or Great Sparrowhawk, is Africa's largest true hawk. Exhibiting a striking black plumage contrasted with a white throat, breast, and belly, this bird of prey is a sight to behold. The species displays a fascinating color polymorphism, with individuals occurring in either a white-breasted "white morph" or the less common "black morph," particularly prevalent along South Africa's coastal regions.

Identification Tips

Adult Black Sparrowhawks can be identified by their predominantly black plumage with white underparts. Both morphs, when in flight, reveal white and black barring on the underside of their wings and tail. Their yellow legs, large feet, and talons are notable, as are the three to four paler stripes on their tails and the four to five on the undersides of their wings. Juveniles display a range of browns and russets with dark streaks and spots, particularly on the wings.

Habitat

This adaptable raptor is found in forested and non-desert areas south of the Sahara, thriving in large trees suitable for nesting. It has shown remarkable adaptability to suburban and human-altered landscapes, including stands of non-indigenous trees grown commercially.

Distribution

The Black Sparrowhawk is widespread and common in sub-Saharan Africa. It is divided into two subspecies: A. m. temminckii in the northwestern regions and A. m. melanoleucus from northeastern Africa to South Africa. They are found from sea level to elevations of 3,700 meters.

Behaviour

Black Sparrowhawks are mostly silent outside of the breeding season. They are known for their agility in flight, often hunting from a concealed perch and engaging in short, powerful dashes to capture their prey. They may also pursue prey on foot or stoop from high flight.

Song & Calls

During the breeding season, males emit short, sharp "keeyp" calls when arriving with prey, while females respond with lower-pitched "kek" sounds. Females solicit food with loud, high-pitched "kweeeeee-uw" calls. Alarm calls and mating cries are also part of their vocal repertoire.

Breeding

These monogamous birds lay 2-4 eggs, which are incubated for about 34-38 days. The female does most of the incubating and brooding, with the male providing food. Chicks are semialtricial, relying on their parents for survival. Fledging occurs after 37 to 50 days, with parental care continuing for several weeks thereafter.

Similar Species

The Black Sparrowhawk may be confused with other Accipiter species, but its size and distinctive coloration set it apart.

Diet and Feeding

Their diet consists primarily of mid-sized birds, with doves and pigeons being common prey. They are opportunistic hunters, occasionally preying on other raptors and small mammals. Urban populations have adapted to prey on birds that thrive in these environments.

Conservation status

The Black Sparrowhawk is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, thanks to its adaptability to various habitats, including urban areas where prey is abundant.