A young Sparrowhawk; second photo gives better view of tail, and the centre toe/talon was long which is another diagnostic feature. The bird had some foliage (Pittosporum) tangled in one foot though the bird appeared uninjured, just slightly encumbered. Maybe it got tangled trying to catch prey. By the time we parted company (after the bird flew to several trees with me following) the foliage seemed to have come off. The Sparrowhawk had left the last tree by the time I returned to it half an hour later.
Certainly looks to have long slender legs, suggesting sparrowhawk, not goshawk. Pity the tail tip (square vs rounded) is not visible. What do you think it was doing hanging onto those pittosporum leaves?
Jackie, I have now added a second photo and some notes to better explain the sighting. Last night's posting was hurried and I did not have time for this additional material.
Thanks. Tail does look squarish. Lucky you - the only close look I've ever had of one was when it flashed past right in front of my face in pursuit of a small bird. In a few microseconds I managed to register the barred underside and tiny size, but that was it - my best view of a sparrowhawk!
I have now posted a third photo in the series, this one was the sharpest and gives a little more info about the Sparrowhawk. It was a fortunate sighting, being able to follow the raptor at close range and get a number of images.
Describe how you intend to use these images and/or audio files and your request will be sent to the author for consideration.
Your request has been successfully submitted to the author for consideration.
2,203,459 sightings of 20,917 species in 9,213 locations from 12,749 contributors
CCA 3.0 | privacy
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of this land and acknowledge their continuing connection to their culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present.