The Nicobar sparrowhawk is a species of bird of prey in the family Accipitridae. It is endemic to the Nicobar Islands of India. There are two subspecies, the nominate race which is found on Car Nicobar in the north of the archipelago, and T. b. obsoleta, from Katchal and Camorta in the central part of the Nicobars. A museum specimen originally attributed to this species from the island of Great Nicobar was later found to be a misidentified Besra. This species was formerly placed in the genus Accipiter.
Region
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Typical Environment
Confined to the Nicobar archipelago, mainly on Car Nicobar, Katchal, and Camorta, where it inhabits lowland evergreen forest, secondary growth, and wooded plantations. It hunts within the forest interior and along edges, using dense cover for ambush. The species avoids extensive open areas but may traverse clearings while moving between patches. Major cyclones and coastal disturbances can temporarily reduce suitable habitat in this small range.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Endemic to India’s Nicobar Islands, this small forest hawk occurs in two subspecies: the nominate on Car Nicobar and T. b. obsoleta on Katchal and Camorta. A supposed record from Great Nicobar was later shown to be a misidentified Besra. It favors dense evergreen and secondary forests and can sometimes be seen along edges and in coconut plantations. Its restricted range makes it sensitive to habitat loss and severe storms.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, maintaining territories in suitable forest. Pairs build a small stick nest high in the canopy and likely lay 2–3 eggs. The species is presumed monogamous, with both adults involved in nest defense and provisioning.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include a sharp series of kek-kek-kek notes and thin, high-pitched whistles, especially around the nest. Calls are quick and piercing, often delivered from a concealed perch.
