Chinese Sparrowhawk Bird Details
Accipiter soloensis
Chinese Sparrowhawk,Mongolian Sparrowhawk, Siberian Sparrowhawk;
NA
B. B. B. Blakiston in 1863.
Accipitriformes (HAWKS, EAGLES and KITES)
Accipitridae
Accipiter
North India, China, Mongolia, Japan, South Korea, and parts of Russia.
Appearance :
The Chinese Sparrowhawk is a small to medium-sized raptor characterized by a slender body and short wings. Males have a greyish upper body and white underparts with fine dark barring, while females are generally browner and larger.
Behaviour :
This species is known for its agility in flight and often exhibits solitary behavior. It can be seen hunting alone or in pairs. It is also known for its fast, direct flight when chasing prey.
Habitat :
The Chinese Sparrowhawk prefers wooded areas, open forests, and scrublands. It is commonly found near wetlands and agricultural fields.
Diet :
The diet primarily consists of small birds, particularly passerines, as well as insects and occasionally small mammals.
Conservation Status :
Least Concern
Distribution :
This species is found in parts of Eastern Asia, including China, Mongolia, Korea, and Siberia. During migration, it can also be found in parts of Southeast Asia.
Population Size :
The population of the Chinese sparrowhawk (Accipiter soloensis) is estimated to be between 10,000 and 100,000 birds.
Life Span :
The lifespan of the Chinese Sparrowhawk in the wild is typically around 5 to 10 years.
Body And Tarsus:
- Body: The Chinese Sparrowhawk has a slender and streamlined body, typical of the Accipiter genus, which aids in agile flight and hunting.
- Tarsus Length: The tarsus length is approximately 25 to 30 mm, which is relatively short compared to its body length, helping with quick movements.
Head And Bill :
- Head: The head is small and rounded, featuring a slight crest that can be raised during displays or when the bird is agitated.
- Bill: The bill is short and hooked, ideal for tearing flesh.
- Bill Length: The bill length is about 2.5 to 3.0 cm.
Length :
The overall bird length ranges from 28 to 34 cm.
Neck :
The neck is relatively short and robust, contributing to the bird's agility and balance.
Size :
Males are generally smaller, measuring around 28 to 30 cm in length, while females can reach lengths of up to 34 cm.
Tail Details :
- Tail: The tail is long and narrow, which aids in maneuverability during flight and while hunting.
- Tail Length: The tail length is approximately 12 to 15 cm, with distinct dark bands that provide identification markers.
- Feathers: The plumage is dark grey or brown on the upper parts with white underparts, featuring fine dark barring. The feathers are soft and facilitate silent flight.
Weight :
The weight of the Chinese Sparrowhawk ranges from 150 to 250 grams.
Wing :
The wings are relatively short and broad, which enhances agility and allows for quick, sharp turns while hunting..
Wing Span :
The wingspan of the Chinese Sparrowhawk ranges from 65 to 75 cm.
Facial Feature :
The Chinese Sparrowhawk has yellow eyes and a slightly hooked bill, characteristic of raptors. The face is somewhat flat, which aids in its hunting strategy.
Nest Details :
- Nest: The Chinese Sparrowhawk builds a platform nest usually located in the canopy of trees. It often prefers secluded locations that provide good cover.
- Nest Made Up Of: The nest is constructed using twigs and branches, lined with softer materials like leaves, grass, and feathers for insulation.
Breeding Season :
The breeding period typically occurs from April to July.
Nesting Season :
The nesting season generally spans from April to June.
Egg Color :
Eggs are usually white or pale blue, sometimes with slight speckling, providing camouflage in the nest.
Egg Length :
The length of the eggs is about 32 to 40 mm.
Egg Width and Weight :
- Egg Width: The width of the eggs is approximately 25 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 a common number.
No. of Broods :
The Chinese Sparrowhawk usually raises one brood per year, though a second brood may occur 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 browner hues with heavier barring on the underparts.
Migration Details :
The Chinese Sparrowhawk is a migratory species, with populations in northern regions migrating south for the winter. Migration typically occurs from August to October for southbound migration and from March to April for northbound migration. The migration route often includes crossing the Himalayas and moving into Southeast Asia.