Levant Sparrowhawk Bird Details
Accipiter brevipes
Levant Sparrowhawk,Short-legged Sparrowhawk, Brevipes Sparrowhawk;
Levant Sparrowhawk
Nikolai Alekseevich Severtzov, 1850
Accipitriformes (HAWKS, EAGLES and KITES)
Accipitridae
Accipiter
Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Jordan, and parts of Egypt, Greece.
Appearance :
The Levant Sparrowhawk is a small to medium-sized raptor with a short, stout body and relatively short wings. Males are typically smaller than females, exhibiting a slate-grey upper body and white underparts with fine dark barring. Females are larger, with more brownish plumage.
Behaviour :
This species is known for its agile flight and is often seen soaring or gliding while searching for prey. It is typically solitary or found in pairs, becoming more social outside the breeding season.
Habitat :
The Levant Sparrowhawk prefers wooded areas, open forests, and scrublands. It is also found in urban areas, especially during migration.
Diet :
The diet primarily consists of small birds, particularly passerines, as well as insects and occasionally small mammals.
Conservation Status :
Least Concern
Distribution :
his species is found in parts of Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. During migration, it can also be spotted in various locations along its migratory path.
Population Size :
The global population of Levant Sparrowhawks (Accipiter brevipes) is estimated to be between 8,190 and 20,400 mature individuals, with 75–94% of them living in Europe.
Life Span :
The lifespan of the Levant Sparrowhawk in the wild is typically around 5 to 10 years.
Body And Tarsus:
- Body: The Levant Sparrowhawk has a compact and sturdy body typical of the Accipiter genus. It has a robust build, which aids in its agility and hunting skills.
- Tarsus Length: The tarsus length is approximately 30 to 35 mm, which allows for quick movements while hunting.
Head And Bill :
- Head: The head is relatively small and rounded, with a slightly pronounced brow. It has a distinctive crest that can be raised during displays.
- Bill: The bill is short and hooked, well-adapted for tearing flesh.
- Bill Length: The bill length is about 2.5 to 3.5 cm.
Length :
The overall bird length ranges from 30 to 34 cm.
Neck :
The neck is short and sturdy, contributing to the bird's balance and agility.
Size :
Males are generally smaller, measuring around 30 cm in length, while females can reach lengths of up to 34 cm.
Tail Details :
- Tail: The tail is long and rectangular, aiding in maneuverability and balance during flight.
- Tail Length: The tail length is approximately 15 to 20 cm, with distinct dark bands that provide identification markers.
- Feathers: The plumage is greyish-brown on the upper parts and white below, with fine dark barring. The feathers are soft and facilitate silent flight.
Weight :
The weight of the Levant Sparrowhawk ranges from 150 to 250 grams.
Wing :
The wings are relatively short and broad, which enhances agility and quick take-offs. This wing shape allows the bird to maneuver effectively through trees and shrubs.
Wing Span :
The wingspan of the Levant Sparrowhawk ranges from 65 to 75 cm.
Facial Feature :
The Levant Sparrowhawk has prominent yellow eyes and a slightly hooked bill, characteristic of raptors. The face appears somewhat flattened, which aids in its hunting strategy.
Nest Details :
- Nest: The Levant Sparrowhawk builds a platform nest typically located in the canopy of trees, often choosing locations that provide good visibility and cover.
- Nest Made Up Of: The nest is constructed using twigs, branches, and leaves, lined with softer materials such as grass or feathers for insulation and comfort.
Breeding Season :
The breeding period typically occurs between April and July.
Nesting Season :
The nesting season generally spans from April to June.
Egg Color :
Eggs are usually white or pale blue with slight speckling, providing some camouflage in the nest.
Egg Length :
The length of the eggs is about 35 to 42 mm.
Egg Width and Weight :
- Egg Width: The width of the eggs is approximately 27 to 30 mm.
- Egg Weight: Each egg weighs around 20 to 30 grams.
Clutch Size :
The clutch size typically consists of 3 to 5 eggs, with 4 eggs being common.
No. of Broods :
The Levant Sparrowhawk generally raises one brood per year, though there may be instances of a second brood if the first is unsuccessful.
Incubation Period :
The incubation period lasts about 30 to 35 days.
Nestling Period :
After hatching, the nestling period lasts approximately 30 to 40 days.
Vocalization :
Vocalizations include a series of sharp, high-pitched calls.
Sex Demorphism :
Females are generally larger and heavier than males. Males have a more uniform greyish plumage, while females tend to have more brownish hues with heavier barring on the underparts.
Migration Details :
The Levant Sparrowhawk is a partial migrant, with populations in the northern parts of its range migrating south during the winter months. Migration typically occurs from August to October for southbound migration and from March to April for northbound migration. The specific routes can vary but often include crossing the Mediterranean and moving into northern Africa.