Tachyspiza erythrauchen
The Rufous-necked Sparrowhawk (*Tachyspiza erythrauchen*) is a striking, medium-sized raptor endemic to the Indonesian islands of Sulawesi and its immediate satellites. Males measure approximately 25-33 cm with a wingspan of 45-55 cm, while females are notably larger, reaching 33-38 cm with a wingspan up to 65 cm, a clear example of reversed sexual dimorphism common in accipiters. Its most distinctive field mark is the rich rufous-chestnut collar around the nape and sides of the neck, contras...
This species primarily inhabits dense, humid primary and secondary forests, typically found from lowlands up to montane areas around 2,000 meters elevation. It prefers areas with good tree cover for hunting and nesting.
Its diet primarily consists of small birds and lizards, supplemented with large insects and occasionally small mammals. It hunts by ambushing prey from a hidden perch within the forest.
The Rufous-necked Sparrowhawk is a diurnal and elusive raptor, often observed perching quietly within the forest canopy, surveying its surroundings. Its primary foraging strategy involves swift, stealthy ambushes from a concealed perch, darting through dense vegetation to seize unsuspecting prey....
The Rufous-necked Sparrowhawk is an endemic resident of the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia, and several adjacent satellite islands. Its primary distribution encompasses Sulawesi itself, where it can be found across various forest types from the lowlands to elevations of approximately 2,000 meters....
Least Concern
- Despite its striking appearance, the Rufous-necked Sparrowhawk is considered one of the more elusive raptors of Sulawesi's forests. - It exhibits significant reversed sexual dimorphism, with females being considerably larger than males, a common trait among sparrowhawks. - Its bright rufous nec...