The forests of Asia are home to a variety of magnificent aerial predators, one of which is the Besra Sparrowhawk (Accipiter virgatus). This small raptor is known for its agility in hunting and its crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. Though often difficult to spot due to its size and swift flight patterns, its presence is a sign of a healthy ecosystem.

Morphology of the Besra Sparrowhawk

The Besra Sparrowhawk is a small to medium-sized raptor, with a body length ranging from 25 to 35 cm and a wingspan of 50 to 65 cm. Males are generally smaller than females, a common trait among birds of prey.

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This hawk has dark gray to brownish upperparts, while its underparts are adorned with reddish-brown horizontal barring against a white background. Its keen yellow eyes, small but strong curved beak, and sharp talons are its primary weapons in capturing prey.

As an agile predator, the Besra Sparrowhawk relies on speed and surprise to hunt. It often sneaks through foliage before launching a sudden attack with rapid and precise movements. This species is most active during the morning and late afternoon, targeting small birds, mammals, and larger insects such as grasshoppers and beetles.

Distribution and Habitat

The Besra Sparrowhawk has a wide distribution across South and Southeast Asia, including India, southern China, Myanmar, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia. In Indonesia, it can be found in Sumatra, Kalimantan, Java, and Bali, particularly in areas up to 2,500 meters above sea level.

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This species is most commonly found in tropical rainforests, secondary forests, and regions with large trees. Occasionally, it adapts to more open environments, including plantations and gardens near human settlements.

Breeding Behaviour

The breeding season of the Besra Sparrowhawk generally occurs between spring and early rainy season, depending on its geographical location. During courtship, pairs engage in aerial displays, including chasing each other and showcasing their flying skills.

Their nests are typically built in large trees with a relatively simple structure made of dry twigs and leaves. The female lays 2–4 eggs, which are incubated for about 4–5 weeks. After hatching, the chicks rely on their parents for several months before learning to hunt on their own and eventually leaving the nest.

Conservation Status and Preservation Efforts

The Besra Sparrowhawk is currently classified as Least Concern (LC) by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, threats such as deforestation and illegal hunting can lead to a significant decline in its population.

To ensure the survival of this species in the wild, several conservation measures can be taken, including protecting it’s natural habitats, raising awareness among local communities about the negative impacts of illegal hunting, and also monitoring populations and conducting research on their behaviour and ecological roles.

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Maintaining the balance of bird of prey populations, such as the Besra Sparrowhawk, also means preserving the ecosystems in which they thrive. Ultimately, these conservation efforts benefit the natural world as a whole, ensuring that these agile hunters continue to rule the forest skies for generations to come.

Text by: Communication Team, BOS Foundation Headquarters, Bogor, West Java