In Short. The Breeding Cycle Of Sparrow Hawks.

[Lutra Lutra 611]

Many members will already be aware that through certain previous posts about my love for the (Sparrow hawk). I don't want to be seen to be going over old ground once again. However, with more new members continuing to grow, I thought it a good idea to share some of my interests with this particular bird. I have in particular favoured the (Shortwings), Accipiters over the Falconiformes. Although I do love the falcons and any other raptor for that matter. Some other closely related birds to the Spars are the larger cousin the (Goshawk) and other Accipiters the Shikra and the Sharpe Shinned Hawk. However, I haven't had much experience with both the Sharpe Shinned and the Shikra's.

I did fly both Muskets and females with I must say ,great success. But I think that subject would be more appropriately entered into the falconry forum.

For many years I have spent a considerable amount of time,pleasure and a deep love in trying to gather much fact-based material on this wonderful bird. My experiences and fond memories have fortunately driven myself to certain locations of my childhood days.

The woodlands in which have been my search for more knowledge of these birds have consisted mainly of conifer plantations planted by the forest commission; but certain other tree species can be found. Much silver birch, sitka spruce and scots pine include into the array of habitat found in such areas. There are also I think some lodgepole pine and in other areas wonderful beech and oak in which are old remnants of the old sherwood forest.

Many countless hours have been spent especially at the nesting sites of certain Sparrowhawk breeding grounds.

More systematic records should have been kept for future reference and somewhat shamefully I admit my mistakes. I did find that Sparrowhawks will not nest in all kinds of woodland, but are selective in their choice.I found it wasn't entirely down to tree species or the size of wood, but more so of the internal structure that exists. Ideally the nesting site should offer plenty of cover, yet at the same time be open enough to permit birds easy flight between the trunks of trees and branches. I also found that some woodland are too thick or are too large. "The Goshawk needs more open woodland and I have found their nests also. The young woods in a stage before thinning are in the too thick category. The age factor, plus management of woodland, are a deciding factor which will influence the period over which Sparrowhawks remain attracted to such woodland. Within this time period of suitability, the birds may nest year after year if not troubled or disturbed. I have found nests the following year in close proximity to previous nests.Nests have been found also in old Squirrel dreys and even I have located birds that have rebuilt a new nest on a former old structure."Sometimes there are no hard and fast rules in this game"! When nature is expected to take a certain repeated path, it totally surprises one in its different approach. I have been going back to certain recorded nest sites for over 30 years, although at a stage of 40-50 years the trees are clear-felled by the forestry commission. However, the woods have to be correctly managed over a 30 year period but to certain factors like too much thickness or cover.

I found also that Sparrowhawks would nest only once during a ten year period, and in others they nested more than than once. Tree spacing was also a convenient measure of acceptability, but other features varied in parallel. Also regarding tree spacing I have found that the further apart the trees the older they are.

They also prefer conifer plantations to the mixed woodlands.Usually you find only one pair in a small wood but I have found 2 pairs in larger woodlands. One nest I located was in a single hawthorne tree, not particularly high to climb if one wanted to, but very difficult to negotiate.

Once at a nest side with friends who studied Sparrowhawks, I took them to a nest in a large conifer plantation and I proceeded to climb to the nest which was approx 40 feet from the ground. I had climbed the nest on earlier occasions and I knew from past experiences she would let myself touch her when trying to examine the clutch of eggs. A wonderful memory in one's life! To be continued: Lutra.....

Edited February 26, 2016 by Lutra Lutra

[paulus 26]

Many members will already be aware that through certain previous posts about my love for the (Sparrow hawk). I don't want to be seen to be going over old ground once again. However, with more new members continuing to grow, I thought it a good idea to share some of my interests with this particular bird. I have in particular favoured the (Shortwings), Accipiters over the Falconiformes. Although I do love the falcons and any other raptor for that matter. Some other closely related birds to the Spars are the larger cousin the (Goshawk) and other Accipiters the Shikra and the Sharpe Shinned Hawk. However, I haven't had much experience with both the Sharpe Shinned ad the Shikra's.

I did fly both Muskets and females with I must say great success. But I think that subject would be more appropriately entered into the falconry forum.

For many years I have spent a considerable amount of time,pleasure and a deep love in trying to gather much fact-based material on this wonderful bird. My experiences and fond memories have fortunately driven myself to certain locations of my childhood days.

The woodlands in which have been my search for more knowledge of these birds have consisted mainly of conifer plantations planted by the forest commission; but certain other tree species can be found. Much sliver birch, sitka spruce and scots pine include into the array of habitat found in such areas. There are also I think some lodgepole pine and in other areas wonderful beech and oak in which are old remnants of the old sherwood forest.

Many countless hours have been spent especially at the nesting sites of certain Sparrowhawk breeding grounds.

More systematic records should have been kept for future reference and somewhat shamefully I admit my mistakes. I did find that Sparrowhawks will not nest in all kinds of woodland, but are selective in their choice.I found it wasn't entirely down to tree species or the size of wood, but more so of the internal structure that exists. Ideally the nesting site should offer plenty of cover, yet at the same time be open enough to permit birds easy flight between the trunks of trees and branches. I also found that some woodland are too thick or are too large. "The Goshawk needs more open woodland and I have found their nests also. The young woods in a stage before thinning are in the too thick category. The age factor, plus management of woodland, are a deciding factor which will influence the period over which Sparrowhawks remain attracted to such woodland. Within this time period of suitability, the birds may nest year after year if not troubled or disturbed. I have found nests the following year in close proximity to previous nests.Nests have been found also in old Squirrel dreys and even I have located birds that have rebuilt a new nest on a former old structure."Sometimes there are no hard and fast rules in this game"! When nature is expected to take a certain repeated path, it totally surprises one in its different approach. I have been going back to certain recorded nest sites for over 30 years, although at a stage of 40-50 years the trees are clear-felled by the forestry commission. However, the woods have to be correctly managed over a 30 year period but to certain factors like too much thickness or cover.

I found also that Sparrowhawks would nest only once during a ten year period, and in others they nested more than than once. Tree spacing was also a convenient measure of acceptability, but other features varied in parallel. Also regarding tree spacing I have found that the further apart the trees the older they are.

They also prefer conifer plantations to the mixed woodlands.Usually you find only one pair in a small wood but I have found 2 pairs in larger woodlands. One nest I located was in a single hawthorne tree, not particularly high to climb if one wanted to, but very difficult to negotiate.

Once at a nest side with friends who studied Sparrowhawks, I took them to a nest in a large conifer plantation and I proceeded to climb to the nest which was approx 40 feet from the ground. I had climbed the nest on earlier occasions and I knew from past experiences she would let myself touch her when trying to examine the clutch of eggs. A wonderful memory in one's life! To be continued: Lutra.....

 

Normally around here they avoid large broad-leaf woodland and favor of spinneys or tree lined tracks. the main criteria seems to be being able to see anything coming before it sees you. once the young are able then theres no hiding the nest as the noise is unmistakable as it the mess Lol

[Lutra Lutra 611]

 

Many members will already be aware that through certain previous posts about my love for the (Sparrow hawk). I don't want to be seen to be going over old ground once again. However, with more new members continuing to grow, I thought it a good idea to share some of my interests with this particular bird. I have in particular favoured the (Shortwings), Accipiters over the Falconiformes. Although I do love the falcons and any other raptor for that matter. Some other closely related birds to the Spars are the larger cousin the (Goshawk) and other Accipiters the Shikra and the Sharpe Shinned Hawk. However, I haven't had much experience with both the Sharpe Shinned ad the Shikra's.

I did fly both Muskets and females with I must say great success. But I think that subject would be more appropriately entered into the falconry forum.

For many years I have spent a considerable amount of time,pleasure and a deep love in trying to gather much fact-based material on this wonderful bird. My experiences and fond memories have fortunately driven myself to certain locations of my childhood days.

The woodlands in which have been my search for more knowledge of these birds have consisted mainly of conifer plantations planted by the forest commission; but certain other tree species can be found. Much sliver birch, sitka spruce and scots pine include into the array of habitat found in such areas. There are also I think some lodgepole pine and in other areas wonderful beech and oak in which are old remnants of the old sherwood forest.

Many countless hours have been spent especially at the nesting sites of certain Sparrowhawk breeding grounds.

More systematic records should have been kept for future reference and somewhat shamefully I admit my mistakes. I did find that Sparrowhawks will not nest in all kinds of woodland, but are selective in their choice.I found it wasn't entirely down to tree species or the size of wood, but more so of the internal structure that exists. Ideally the nesting site should offer plenty of cover, yet at the same time be open enough to permit birds easy flight between the trunks of trees and branches. I also found that some woodland are too thick or are too large. "The Goshawk needs more open woodland and I have found their nests also. The young woods in a stage before thinning are in the too thick category. The age factor, plus management of woodland, are a deciding factor which will influence the period over which Sparrowhawks remain attracted to such woodland. Within this time period of suitability, the birds may nest year after year if not troubled or disturbed. I have found nests the following year in close proximity to previous nests.Nests have been found also in old Squirrel dreys and even I have located birds that have rebuilt a new nest on a former old structure."Sometimes there are no hard and fast rules in this game"! When nature is expected to take a certain repeated path, it totally surprises one in its different approach. I have been going back to certain recorded nest sites for over 30 years, although at a stage of 40-50 years the trees are clear-felled by the forestry commission. However, the woods have to be correctly managed over a 30 year period but to certain factors like too much thickness or cover.

I found also that Sparrowhawks would nest only once during a ten year period, and in others they nested more than than once. Tree spacing was also a convenient measure of acceptability, but other features varied in parallel. Also regarding tree spacing I have found that the further apart the trees the older they are.

They also prefer conifer plantations to the mixed woodlands.Usually you find only one pair in a small wood but I have found 2 pairs in larger woodlands. One nest I located was in a single hawthorne tree, not particularly high to climb if one wanted to, but very difficult to negotiate.

Once at a nest side with friends who studied Sparrowhawks, I took them to a nest in a large conifer plantation and I proceeded to climb to the nest which was approx 40 feet from the ground. I had climbed the nest on earlier occasions and I knew from past experiences she would let myself touch her when trying to examine the clutch of eggs. A wonderful memory in one's life! To be continued: Lutra.....

 

Normally around here they avoid large broad-leaf woodland and favor of spinneys or tree lined tracks. the main criteria seems to be being able to see anything coming before it sees you. once the young are able then theres no hiding the nest as the noise is unmistakable as it the mess Lol

 

Hello Paulus, You will be aware that the mutes and down, plus feathers are a tell-tale sign that a nest is occupied. However, It has been the downfall of many a keepers gun through the recognition of feathers, down and the mutes which are generally splashed over surrounding branches or any type of ground cover. I wouldn't condone such illegal activities, but it does happen in the keepering world. Of course not all keepers are the same. I love the birds, but it can be frustrating for keepers who continue to lose Pheasant or Partridge poults. Of course I wouldn't hurt a feather on their head, but the truth is; simple, they can do damage. I am talking about the females which due to the Muskets diminutive size only are capable of taking small fry. I did have a female Spar that took a farmyard small type fowl, but it was approx 3 times in weight to the female. You like the Spars?

Edited February 25, 2016 by Lutra Lutra

[lanesra 4,007]

I've watched the same nest (I'm assuming its the same pair) been used successfully for 3 yrs now , last yr a fair bit of building work was happening across the river from this nest and I thought they may not nest there but they did no bother , great when you time it right & watch the young 1st leave the nest and be fed round the nest , me and my mate (taffy on here) 2 summers ago watched as the adults brought food in and the young where feeding on the floor yards from us , stunning / mysterious birds , my favourite bird of prey , though I Regulary see Peregrine which is also a Magnificient bird , know lads who've has all types of bop & owls but no one who's had sparrow hawks , I've done most forms of hunting across the uk & Ireland involving dogs & hounds but never involving hawks or falcons .

[j j m 6,611]

i watch the same nest every year same place

[paulus 26]

the other afternoon

[lanesra 4,007]

The 1 regret I have is I couldn't get into photography as Id I've got some cracking shots off birds , well wildlife in generalif Id off preservered .

[hjckcff 1,738]

The 1 regret I have is I couldn't get into photography as Id I've got some cracking shots off birds , well wildlife in generalif Id off preservered .

its never to late to start.

[Lutra Lutra 611]

I've watched the same nest (I'm assuming its the same pair) been used successfully for 3 yrs now , last yr a fair bit of building work was happening across the river from this nest and I thought they may not nest there but they did no bother , great when you time it right & watch the young 1st leave the nest and be fed round the nest , me and my mate (taffy on here) 2 summers ago watched as the adults brought food in and the young where feeding on the floor yards from us , stunning / mysterious birds , my favourite bird of prey , though I Regulary see Peregrine which is also a Magnificient bird , know lads who've has all types of bop & owls but no one who's had sparrow hawks , I've done most forms of hunting across the uk & Ireland involving dogs & hounds but never involving hawks or falcons .

Hello Ianesra, I totally agree that many people keep all type of Raptors but very rarely Sparrowhawks; more so (Muskets) due to being so delicate and immensely difficult to manage and train. Our time with both Muskets and females have proved to be some of our most enjoyable times within our life.

[paulus 26]

 

I've watched the same nest (I'm assuming its the same pair) been used successfully for 3 yrs now , last yr a fair bit of building work was happening across the river from this nest and I thought they may not nest there but they did no bother , great when you time it right & watch the young 1st leave the nest and be fed round the nest , me and my mate (taffy on here) 2 summers ago watched as the adults brought food in and the young where feeding on the floor yards from us , stunning / mysterious birds , my favourite bird of prey , though I Regulary see Peregrine which is also a Magnificient bird , know lads who've has all types of bop & owls but no one who's had sparrow hawks , I've done most forms of hunting across the uk & Ireland involving dogs & hounds but never involving hawks or falcons .

Hello Ianesra, I totally agree that many people keep all type of Raptors but very rarely Sparrowhawks; more so (Muskets) due to being so delicate and immensely difficult to manage and train. Our time with both Muskets and females have proved to be some of our most enjoyable times within our life.

 

i started with sparrowhawks, made some big mistakes but in the end it was the best time i ever had with birds.

[HPR 1,161]

I've always flown spar's and goss's . The spars I've flown have just as much guts as the goss . Love them both .

Great pic paulus .

[paulus 26]

I've always flown spar's and goss's . The spars I've flown have just as much guts as the goss . Love them both .

Great pic paulus .

i was creeping up the hedgeline to get near to a couple of hares and i nearly stood on here with that blackie, not sure who scared who the most. just pointed the camera and hopped for the best Lol

[baz 464]

Great little bird, we regularly see them round here, myself and kids have regularly been around them when there on a kill, like 6-7 feet away, got few videos and photos on my phone, we have an annual nesting spot just down round,were we check on them , two years ago I had to climb back up tree and put one back in nest, found it just before my Russell did(luckily)... Love seeing them

[lanesra 4,007]

Yes cracking picture Paulus , Photography like working dogs / hounds you have be out and about , yes the technology your plays a part but you also need to know your fieldcraft & be switched on too nature , I'd say lots of lads on here all started the same as kids egg collecting , tadpoles , using any dog to take out hunting , we'd whistle up any dog on the estate when we where kids lol , remember seeing a kestrel as a kid a bloke kept I was fascinated & thought to myself when older Id have birds of prey , something I regret not doing to be honest , Lots of the best naturalists are lads who love hunting & are switched onto nature , which looking at the pics & taxidermy on this site proves lots on here are .

[paulus 26]

Yes cracking picture Paulus , Photography like working dogs / hounds you have be out and about , yes the technology your plays a part but you also need to know your fieldcraft & be switched on too nature , I'd say lots of lads on here all started the same as kids egg collecting , tadpoles , using any dog to take out hunting , we'd whistle up any dog on the estate when we where kids lol , remember seeing a kestrel as a kid a bloke kept I was fascinated & thought to myself when older Id have birds of prey , something I regret not doing to be honest , Lots of the best naturalists are lads who love hunting & are switched onto nature , which looking at the pics & taxidermy on this site proves lots on here are .

got the hare shot anyway, never noticed the one behind it until i processed the image Lol