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Bird of Prey

Sparrowhawk

Accipiter nisus

The Sparrowhawk is a small, agile bird of prey commonly seen in wooded areas and gardens across the UK. Known for its swift flight and skillful hunting of small birds, it is a fascinating species to watch.

Overview Identification Report sighting
At a glance

Quick field summary

The Sparrowhawk is a small, agile bird of prey commonly seen in wooded areas and gardens across the UK. Known for its swift flight and skillful hunting of small birds, it is a fascinating species to watch.

Best seenAll year
HabitatWoodland
DietInsects, seeds and berries
StatusGreen
Identification

How to identify Sparrowhawk

Compact body with short broad wings and a long tail. Adult males have blue-grey upperparts and reddish-barred underparts, females are larger and browner with less distinct barring. Yellow eyes and thin legs.

  • Blue-grey upperparts
  • Reddish barred chest (male)
  • Brown barred chest (female)
  • Long rounded tail with dark bands
  • Fast, low flight with quick wing beats
Where to see it

Habitat, range and timing

Woodland edges, gardens with dense trees, parks and wooded farmland across the UK

Widespread across the UK, more common in England and Wales; resident all year in most areas, with some movements in northern regions

  • South East England
  • East Midlands
  • Scottish Borders
  • Wales
  • South West England
Spring Sparrowhawks are highly active during spring breeding season, often seen hunting near woodland edges.
Summer Juveniles can be spotted learning to hunt in gardens and woodlands during summer months.
Autumn Bird activity increases as young birds disperse; their agility in low flight makes them easier to spot in woodlands.
Winter Remain resident; often hunt in gardens where small birds gather for feeders.
Behaviour

Song, movement and nesting

Silent compared to other birds; sharp kik-kik call often heard during chase or breeding season.

Builds large stick nests high in trees; female incubates eggs while male hunts; usually 3-5 eggs laid.

Gallery

Photos and plumage details

Compare

Similar birds

Use shape, plumage and habitat together to separate close matches in the field.

Look-alike guide

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Keep exploring

Discover more British birds

Browse a few more field guides and keep building your knowledge of the birds around you.

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Questions

Common questions

What does a Sparrowhawk eat?

Mainly small birds, supplemented by insects and small mammals.

How can I tell a male from a female Sparrowhawk?

Males are smaller with blue-grey upperparts and rufous barring; females are larger and browner.

Where are Sparrowhawks commonly found?

They favour woodlands, wooded gardens and farmland across the UK.

Are Sparrowhawks endangered?

No, they are classified as Least Concern with stable populations.

Do Sparrowhawks visit gardens?

Yes, especially in winter, attracted by prey such as small garden birds.

Bird Watching UK