Black Sparrowhawk Accipiter melanoleucus
This species surely represents the ‘prototype’ of the Accipiter species. To my knowledge it the largest of the sparrowhawks in Africa. It is a notoriously efficient and deadly predator, taking prey as large as guineafowl.
The Black Sparrowhawk is widespread throughout sub-Saharan Africa; its favourite habitat being regions where tall trees are present. This species is commonly encountered in Afro-montane or Riverine forests (or patches) and exotic plantations.
To my knowledge (from books, magazines, etc.) the Black Sparrowhawk population has benefited extensively from alien trees and exotic plantations (for habitat) as well as an increase in many of its favoured prey, namely pigeons, doves and ‘fowls.’ According to my resources, these factors have contributed to an increase in their numbers. Is this true? Any new information in regards to this topic is welcome and would be most interesting!
I am leaving the rest of the information and tit-bits on this fascinating bird of prey up to some comments from visitors and contributors.
Here are some ideas…Is the Black Sparrowhawk the largest Accipiter spp. in the world? Different forms of this species exist; what are they, where are they found? How does this species hunt? What breeding strategies does this species adopt? How common is the Black Spar in Southern Africa? Calls? Nests/nesting?
Those are just some of the questions I’m hoping to get answers to!
Hanno.
The picture below was taken in the west of Pretoria by the author. Note the much favoured eucalyptus tree that this bird was found nesting in.
CLICK ON THUMBNAIL IMAGE TO ENLARGE
