Tachyspiza virgata
The Besra, now officially known as *Tachyspiza virgata* (formerly *Accipiter virgatus*), is a small to medium-sized raptor belonging to the family Accipitridae, closely related to other agile forest hawks like the Eurasian Sparrowhawk. Adults typically measure 29-36 cm (11-14 inches) in length with a wingspan of 50-65 cm (20-26 inches), with females notably larger than males, a common trait among accipiters. Males exhibit slate-grey upperparts and finely barred rufous-brown underparts, while ...
Primarily inhabits dense deciduous, evergreen, and montane forests, as well as secondary growth and plantations, from lowlands up to 3,700 meters (12,000 feet).
Feeds predominantly on small birds (finches, warblers, babblers) and small mammals (mice, voles), supplemented with reptiles and large insects.
The Besra is a diurnal and largely solitary raptor, renowned for its stealthy hunting technique. It typically perches concealed within forest canopies, patiently waiting for prey, then launching into a swift, acrobatic pursuit. Foraging involves short, explosive flights to ambush unsuspecting bir...
The Besra boasts an extensive distribution across South and Southeast Asia, extending from the Himalayan foothills and India, through Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indochina, reaching eastern China, Korea, Japan, and the Philippines, as well as parts of Indonesia. Its breeding range...
Least Concern
- The Besra was recently reclassified from the genus *Accipiter* to *Tachyspiza*, reflecting new insights into avian phylogeny. - Females are significantly larger than males, a sexual dimorphism known as 'reversed sexual dimorphism', which is common among raptors and helps reduce competition for ...