Shikra

Introduction: Shikras (Accipiter badius) are also known as little banded goshawks, inhabiting all woodland types. This species also favour watercourses and are usually observed in low-lying areas with a decent rainfall average. They roost in copses of tall trees and occasionally bathe at garden bird baths. Prey of Ayres's hawk-eagle and black sparrowhawk.

Distribution: Central and northern Namibia ranges from Epupa Falls extending east to the Caprivi and Victoria Falls, Etosha National Park.

Diet: Opportunistic feeder often catching birds in flight, and attracted to fires to take insects. Eats mainly lizards such as agamas, skinks and geckos. Eats grasshoppers, termites, caterpillars and cockroaches. Small birds, bats, rodents and frogs are also eaten.

Description: Small raptor with short, rounded barred wings and a long tail, allowing for fast flight through areas of dense vegetation. Badius is Latin for reddish-brown.

Breeding: Between 1 and 4 eggs are laid between August and February in a saucer-shaped platform of dry twigs, lined with thick bark chippings.

Size: 30cm.

Weight: 140g.

Wingspan: 58cm.