The collared sparrowhawk is a small, slim bird of prey in the family Accipitridae found in Australia, New Guinea and nearby smaller islands. It was formerly placed in the genus Accipiter. As its name implies the collared sparrowhawk is a specialist in hunting small birds. It is characterised by its slight brow ridges and slender feet. The last segment of their middle toe projects beyond the claws of the other toes.
Region
Australasia
Typical Environment
Occurs across much of Australia, New Guinea, and nearby islands, favoring forested and semi-forested landscapes. It uses eucalypt forests, open woodlands, mallee, riparian corridors, and mangroves. The species also frequents farmland shelterbelts, urban parks, and leafy suburbs where small birds are abundant. It hunts by surprise along edges, clearings, and understory flyways. Roosts in dense foliage and nests in tall trees near reliable prey and cover.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A swift woodland raptor, the collared sparrowhawk specializes in ambushing small birds through dense cover. It is often confused with the larger brown goshawk, but has slimmer legs, a less pronounced brow, and a squarer tail tip. A key diagnostic trait is its very long middle toe, whose last segment projects beyond the claws of the other toes. It readily adapts to suburbs and can dash through gardens and along hedges to flush prey.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats interspersed with brief glides, agile through dense cover
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone or as a breeding pair. Pairs build stick nests high in trees, often near forest edges; clutches usually contain 2–4 eggs. The female mainly incubates while the male provides prey, with both adults defending the nest vigorously.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Usually quiet away from the nest, but becomes vocal in the breeding season. Calls are sharp, high-pitched kek-kek-kek or chittering notes, with rapid series given during displays or alarm.
