The Japanese sparrowhawk is a bird of prey in the family Accipitridae which also includes many other diurnal raptors such as eagles, buzzards and harriers. It was formerly placed in the genus Accipiter. The bird is known by many alternative names such as the Japanese lesser, Asiatic, or Eastern sparrowhawk. This species is a small raptor with broader and rounder wings and a shorter tail. Its total length measures 23–30 centimetres (9.1–11.8 in). It has a dark back and whitish underside with brown-grey barring and red-brown colouring on the sides in males, and with heavier brown barring on the abdomen in females. Both sexes have a stripe across the throat, but its more obvious in the female. Is it typically identified by its appearance, but occasionally produces a chattering kiki-kik-kik... sound. This species generally breeds in parts of Russia, Korea, Japan, and China. There are three subspecies of Japanese sparrowhawk that differ by distribution and appearance. The species is globally listed as least concern, although it is listed as endangered in Japan and protected in China.
Region
East Asia to Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds in Japan, the Korean Peninsula, northeast China, and parts of the Russian Far East, favoring mixed and deciduous forests. During migration it passes through eastern China and the Korean Peninsula and winters in Southeast Asia, including Taiwan, the Philippines, Borneo, and parts of Indonesia. It uses forest interiors, edges, riparian woodlands, plantations, and wooded parks. The species prefers areas with clear flight lanes for ambush hunting and perches within mid-canopy to scan for prey.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small, agile woodland raptor, the Japanese sparrowhawk specializes in surprise attacks through trees and along forest edges. Males are smaller and show richer rufous tones below, while females are larger with heavier brown barring. It breeds in East Asia and undertakes notable southward migrations to winter in Southeast Asia. Though globally not at risk, some local populations face pressures from habitat loss.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats punctuated by glides
Social Behavior
Pairs form on breeding territories in mature woodland. The nest is placed high in trees, and the clutch typically contains 2–5 eggs. The female does most incubation while the male provides prey; both adults feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Usually quiet, but during breeding gives a sharp, chattering kiki-kik-kik call. Contact and alarm notes are high-pitched and rapid, carrying through forest canopies.
