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

PLATE 37 in Handbook. (Field Guide plate 41)

Great Sparrowhawk Accipiter melanoleucus
Africa

African Goshawk Accipiter tachiro*
Africa

*Two subspecies shown here are, in the Field Guide, treated as races of Red-chested Goshawk Accipiter toussenelii, formerly regarded as a subspecies of Accipiter tachiro.

ABOUT THE BIRDS The Great Sparrowhawk is the largest of the African accipiters. It preys on birds up to the size of guineafowl and occasionally kills other hawks and owls.

The African Goshawk is generally considered the commonest African accipiter and the most easily seen, especially early in the day when it soars in display.

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