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

PLATE 38 in Handbook. (Field Guide plate 42)

Henst’s Goshawk Accipiter henstii
W, N and E Madagascar

Madagascar Sparrowhawk Accipiter madagascariensis
Madagascar

Frances’s Sparrowhawk Accipiter francesii
Madagascar, Comoro Islands

ABOUT THE BIRDS An impressive hunter, Henst’s Goshawk ambushes birds, lemurs and other mammals, usually from dense cover below the forest canopy.

The Madagascar Sparrowhawk is a little-known, secretive species that lives in rainforest, wooded savannah and deciduous woodland. It is thought to be primarily a bird-eater.

Frances’s Sparrowhawk is often surprisingly tame and approachable as it perches in the open, on the lookout for prey. Chameleons are its favourite food.

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