Japanese Sparrowhawk
Tachyspiza gularis
Data DeficientAves
About
The Japanese sparrowhawk is a bird of prey in the family Accipitridae which also includes many other diurnal raptors such as eagles, buzzards and harriers. It was formerly placed in the genus Accipiter. The bird is known by many alternative names such as the Japanese lesser, Asiatic, or Eastern sparrowhawk. This species is a small raptor with broader and rounder wings and a shorter tail. Its total length measures 23–30 centimetres (9.1–11.8 in). It has a dark back and whitish underside with brown-grey barring and red-brown colouring on the sides in males, and with heavier brown barring on the abdomen in females. Both sexes have a stripe across the throat, but its more obvious in the female. Is it typically identified by its appearance, but occasionally produces a chattering kiki-kik-kik... sound. This species generally breeds in parts of Russia, Korea, Japan, and China. There are three subspecies of Japanese sparrowhawk that differ by distribution and appearance. The species is globally listed as least concern, although it is listed as endangered in Japan and protected in China.
Fun Fact
The Japanese sparrowhawk typically inhabits many forest types such as deciduous, coniferous and mixed, at elevations up to 1800 meters but usually below 1000 meters.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Lives solely in evergreen subtropical forests on the South Ryukyu Islands of Japan.
Diet
To be updated
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance