The chestnut-flanked sparrowhawk is a small west African species of sparrowhawk in the family Accipitridae. This species was formerly placed in the genus Accipiter.
Region
West and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Found in lowland and foothill tropical rainforests from West Africa east through the Congo Basin, including forest edges, secondary growth, and riparian strips. It favors dense, humid woodland where it can hunt along shaded trails and gaps. The species is generally absent from open savannas and very degraded habitats. It occurs locally in countries such as Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Republic of the Congo, and Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small forest-dwelling raptor of West and Central Africa, the chestnut-flanked sparrowhawk is notable for its warm rufous flanks that contrast with its grey upperparts. It hunts by surprise from low or mid-level perches, dashing through dense vegetation to take small birds and other prey. Often inconspicuous, it is more often detected by its sharp, high-pitched calls than by sight.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides through forest
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Builds a small stick nest high in the forest canopy; thought to be monogamous. Clutch is small, and both adults may participate in territory defense and prey delivery.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high-pitched, sharp squeals and repeated piping notes, often delivered from a concealed perch. Rapid kek-kek or pee-pee series may be given during territorial displays or when agitated.
Plumage
Slate-grey upperparts with whitish underparts highlighted by rich chestnut flanks and sides; fine grey barring may be present on the chest. Tail shows dark bars; throat usually pale with a subtle central stripe. Juveniles are browner above with streaked underparts.
Diet
Prey consists mainly of small birds taken by ambush, along with lizards, frogs, and large insects. It hunts from a perch, launching swift, low-level pursuits through tangles and along forest paths. Opportunistic near forest edges and clearings where small birds congregate.
Preferred Environment
Feeds within dense understory and midstory of humid forest, along edges, streams, and in secondary growth. Will also visit forest margins near villages or plantations if cover remains adequate.
