Fauna
Bird

Chinese Sparrowhawk

Accipiter soloensis

Also known as Chinese Goshawk, Horsfield's Goshawk

Chinese sparrowhawks are migratory raptors famous for gathering in impressive flocks of thousands along East Asian flyways each autumn. Adults feature slate-grey upperparts, a delicate rufous wash on the chest, and striking black wingtips visible during soaring flight. They hunt from elevated perches, swooping swiftly to grab frogs, lizards, and large insects from forest edges and agricultural fields.

RaptorMigratoryCarnivorous
Chinese Sparrowhawk reference
(c) anukma, some rights reserved (CC BY) / CC BY 4.0 · cc-by
—observations
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyFrogs, Lizards, Insects
Predators
  • Larger raptors
  • Owls
ThreatsHabitat loss, illegal shooting during migration, agricultural chemicals
HabitatsForests, woodland edges, plantations, agricultural lands
Life span7–12 years
Classification
  1. FamilyAccipitridae
  2. SpeciesAccipiter soloensis
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Wild raptors possess sharp talons and beaks; observe from a respectful distance.
Responsible observation
  • Migration Observation: Watch key coastal headlands and ridgeways in East Asia during autumn to view massive flocking events.
  • Field Identification: Look for dark wingtips contrasting with bright pale underwings during soaring flight.
Related species
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