A small, fast, and agile bird of prey found across much of sub-Saharan Africa, from South Africa to Ethiopia. As one of the smallest members of the Accipiter genus—which includes goshawks and sparrowhawks—this raptor lives up to its name in size, but not in boldness. Though discreet and often difficult to spot, the little sparrowhawk is a skilled hunter, perfectly adapted to life in woodlands, forests, gardens, and even suburban areas.
Males are typically smaller than females, a common trait in birds of prey. They are elegant in appearance, with a slate-gray back and head, contrasting with a white belly finely barred with rufous or brownish streaks. The eyes are bright yellow, and the legs are long and yellow, suited for swift maneuvers in dense foliage. Females have similar markings but are usually larger and browner overall.
The little sparrowhawk is most active at dawn and dusk, although it may hunt throughout the day. Its flight is fast, low, and darting, especially through thick vegetation, where it chases down small birds like weavers, doves, and finches. It may also take lizards, insects, and even bats. Thanks to its small size and exceptional speed, it is well-suited for ambush-style hunting, often perching quietly before launching a surprise attack.
Unlike many raptors, little sparrowhawks are remarkably tolerant of human presence and can be found in city parks and gardens where prey is abundant and tall trees offer nesting and roosting spots. They are solitary and territorial, though pairs are seen together during the breeding season.
Distribution
Angola
Botswana
Burundi
DR Congo (Kinshasa)
Eritrea
Eswatini
Ethiopia
Kenya
Lesotho
Malawi
Mozambique
Namibia
Rwanda
Somalia
South Africa
South Sudan
Sudan
Tanzania
Uganda
Zambia
ZimbabweAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
