Order: Accipitriformes
Family: Accipitridae
Genus: Accipiter
Species: nisus
Sub-species: granti

Description
This raptor is smaller than the Buzzard and larger than the Kestrel (the other two raptors found in the Madeira archipelago). Its wings are rounded and relatively short. The male has reddish underparts while the female is larger, greyer and coarsely barred. The Sparrowhawk is extremely quick and silent, flying among trees with great skill and agility.

Distribution
The Sparrowhawk is found throughout the entire island of Madeira but is not easily seen on account of its discreet habits. This subspecies only occurs in Madeira and Canary archipelagos.

Habitat
Lives in forested areas where it flies under cover of vegetation. This species is rarely seen in the open fields.

Breeding
It builds its nest in trees, normally between 6 and 12 metres above the ground. The nests are built in March and the eggs are laid in April. The clutches have 3 or 4 eggs and the incubation period is 33 to 35 days. The young birds are ready to fly by the time they are 5 to 6 weeks old.

Madeiran name: Fura-bardos or Gavião
Madeira Archipelago breeder
Social: Family groups
Length: 28 – 40 cm
Status: Secure