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

PLATE 36 in Handbook. (Field Guide plate 40)

Little Sparrowhawk Accipiter minullus
E, SC and S Africa

Red-thighed Sparrowhawk Accipiter erythropus
W and C Africa

Chestnut-flanked Sparrowhawk Accipiter castaniliusk
W and C Africa

ABOUT THE BIRDS The smallest of the African accipiters, the Little Sparrowhawk is an agile hunter, capable of pursuing birds and insects through dense foliage if necessary.

The Red-thighed Sparrowhawk normally lives beneath the canopy of humid forests. It catches tiny waxbills and other small birds, and also eats insects, including butterflies.

The Chestnut-flanked Sparrowhawk is a little-known species that rarely emerges from cover in tropical rainforests. Birds are thought to be its main prey.

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