The vinous-breasted sparrowhawk is a species of bird of prey in the family Accipitridae. It was formerly placed in the genus Accipiter. It is endemic to the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest, subtropical or tropical mangrove forest, and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.
Region
Sulawesi (Wallacea)
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout Sulawesi’s remaining lowland to montane forests, including forest edges, secondary growth, and mangrove margins. It patrols along ridgelines, river corridors, and clearings where prey is easier to spot. The species uses both primary and well-structured secondary forest, showing some tolerance of disturbance if canopy cover persists. In mangroves it hunts along creeks and open channels, occasionally venturing into adjacent coastal scrub.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small hawk is endemic to Sulawesi, Indonesia, and is most often seen zipping through forest edges and clearings. Its vinous (wine-colored) breast gives it a distinctive look among regional sparrowhawks. It was formerly placed in the genus Accipiter but is now often assigned to Tachyspiza based on recent taxonomic revisions. Like many forest raptors, it can be elusive and is most easily detected by its sharp, accelerating call.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides
Social Behavior
Typically encountered alone or in monogamous pairs. Nests are placed high in trees within intact forest, with the female incubating while the male provides food. Breeding territories are defended by display flights and vocalizations.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rapid series of high-pitched kek-kek-kek notes that may accelerate and rise in urgency near the nest. Also gives sharp, piercing whistles when alarmed.
