A David Mead original from Raptors of the World, published by Christopher Helm as a Handbook (2001) and a Field Guide (2005).

PLATE 35 in Handbook. (Field Guide plate 39)

Shikra Accipiter badius
Africa, India, Sri Lanka, SW and SE Asia

Ovambo Sparrowhawk Accipiter ovampensis
Africa

Rufous-breasted Sparrowhawk Accipiter rufiventris
Africa

ABOUT THE BIRDS Common, adaptable and very vocal, the Shikra occupies a variety of wooded habitats, including city parks. It may dash into buildings to snatch lizards from walls.

The Ovambo Sparrowhawk, unlike the Shikra, is silent except in the breeding season. It lives in dry woodland, thornbush and plantations, and preys chiefly on birds.

The Rufous-breasted Sparrowhawk hunts birds up to the size of pigeons. It is patchily distributed in both wooded and open country down the eastern side of Africa.

Medium Gouache on tinted acrylic gesso
Image size 8in x 12in (20cm x 30cm)