Shikra

Accipiter Badius

Order:

Accipitriformes

Family:

Accipitridae

Size:

25-44.5 cm

Weight:

M 100-193 g, F 130-266 g

Taxonomy:

A. b. cenchroides (Severtsov, 1873)

Short Description:

Shikra (Accipiter badius) is a small but agile bird of prey found across a wide range of habitats in Pakistan. Known for its striking appearance and adept hunting skills, the Shikra has a slate-grey upper body, with a distinctive barred chest and reddish-brown underparts. With its sharp, hooked beak and powerful talons, the Shikra primarily preys on small birds, insects, and sometimes small mammals and reptiles. It hunts by stealthily maneuvering through trees and bushes, using its rapid flight and quick reflexes to surprise its prey. The Shikra is often observed perched in densely vegetated areas, patiently awaiting an opportunity to strike. Despite its small size, the Shikra is a formidable predator and plays an important role in controlling populations of small birds and pests, contributing to the balance of its ecosystem.

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Shikra (Accipiter badius) is distributed widely across Pakistan, inhabiting various habitats ranging from dense forests and woodlands to urban areas and agricultural landscapes. Found throughout the country, from the lowlands to the foothills of the mountains, the Shikra is a versatile bird of prey. It can be spotted in regions such as the Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Its adaptability to diverse habitats and ability to thrive in both rural and urban environments make the Shikra one of the most common and widely distributed raptors in Pakistan.

The Shikra (Accipiter badius) exhibits characteristic behavior reflective of its predatory nature and habitat preferences. As a small but agile bird of prey, the Shikra primarily hunts small birds, insects, and occasionally small mammals and reptiles. It employs stealthy tactics, maneuvering through trees and bushes with remarkable agility to surprise its prey. The Shikra is known for its rapid flight and quick reflexes, allowing it to swiftly capture its target with its sharp talons. It often perches in densely vegetated areas, patiently waiting for an opportunity to strike. During the breeding season, Shikras may engage in courtship displays, which include aerial acrobatics and vocalizations to attract mates and establish territories.