Black Sparrowhawk

Astur melanoleucus (Smith, A, 1830)

Black Sparrowhawk, Astur melanoleucus, is a bird of prey in the Accipitridae family and breeds across Africa. It is found mainly in sub-Saharan forest and other non-desert areas, especially where tall trees are available for nesting, and it also uses suburban and human-modified places. The species is widespread and common. It is one of the larger hawks, with females bigger than males. Adults may be black overall or show a white throat, breast and belly, and in flight both forms display barred underwings and tail. Young birds are brown and russet with dark streaking.

Order

Accipitriformes

Family

Accipitridae — Kites, Hawks, Eagles

Breeding range

Africa: widespread