The Ovambo or Ovampo sparrowhawk, also known as Hilgert's sparrowhawk, is a species of sub-Saharan African bird of prey in the family Accipitridae. It takes its name from the Ovamboland in northern Namibia.
Region
Southern and Eastern Africa
Typical Environment
Found across dry woodland, thornveld, and open savanna from Namibia and Angola east through Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, and north into parts of Zambia and Malawi, with scattered occurrence in adjacent regions. It favors edges of woodland, riparian trees, and open areas with scattered tall trees. The species adapts to semi-arid habitats and will hunt along roads, clearings, and waterholes. It can occasionally be seen near settlements where suitable trees persist.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called Hilgert's sparrowhawk, this raptor is named after Ovamboland in northern Namibia. Unusually for an accipiter, it often pursues small birds in fast, sustained flight over open country rather than relying solely on ambush. Females are noticeably larger than males, a common trait in hawks.
In flight
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
fast direct flight with short rapid wingbeats and brief glides
Social Behavior
Typically solitary outside the breeding season and strongly territorial around the nest. Pairs build a stick nest high in a tree, often in woodland edges or near watercourses. The female incubates most of the time while the male provides food, and both adults defend the territory vigorously.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Generally quiet away from the nest, but gives sharp, high-pitched kek-kek or kik calls, especially during breeding and territorial displays. Alarm calls are rapid, chattering notes when intruders approach the nest.
