Shikras, a species of small hawk found in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, are known to prey on a variety of small animals, including frogs. These skilled hunters use their sharp talons and hooked beaks to capture and consume their prey, making frogs a part of their diverse diet.

Shikras’ Hunting Behavior and Diet

Shikras are adept hunters that thrive in a range of habitats, including woodlands, savannas, and even populated areas. They are known to prey on a variety of small animals, such as:

• Lizards
• Insects
• Small birds
• Bats
• Frogs

Their long, barred tails help them maintain balance during hunting, while their strong legs and sharp talons allow them to capture and kill their prey. Shikras also have a sharp, hooked beak that they use to tear their prey into pieces for consumption.

Frogs as Part of the Shikra’s Diet

Image source: ShiKRA by Suvendu suvo

While shikras have a diverse diet, frogs are indeed a part of their prey. Shikras are known to hunt and consume various species of frogs, including:

• Tree frogs
• Pond frogs
• Marsh frogs

These amphibians provide a valuable source of nutrition for the shikra, as they are relatively easy to catch and offer a good amount of protein.

Shikras’ Adaptability and Hunting Techniques

Shikras are highly adaptable birds of prey, capable of thriving in a variety of environments. They are known to hunt in both natural and urban settings, demonstrating their ability to adapt to changing habitats.

When hunting frogs, shikras often employ a stealthy approach, using their camouflage and agility to sneak up on their prey. Once they have spotted a frog, they will swoop down and use their sharp talons to capture it, often killing it with a swift strike from their hooked beak.

Shikras’ Nesting and Breeding Habits

Shikras are known to build new nests each year, typically in the branches of trees. The female shikra is responsible for incubating the 3-7 eggs laid, while the male provides her with food during this time. Once the chicks hatch, the female takes sole charge of hunting, feeding, and raising the young, which remain in the parents’ habitat for the first year of their life.

Shikras’ Conservation Status and Threats

The shikra is currently listed as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List, with a population of over a million individuals across its range in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. However, like many other birds of prey, shikras face threats from habitat loss, hunting, and the use of pesticides.

Conclusion

In conclusion, shikras are skilled predators that do indeed include frogs as part of their diverse diet. These adaptable birds of prey use their sharp talons, hooked beaks, and agility to hunt and consume a variety of small animals, including amphibians like frogs. Understanding the shikra’s hunting behavior and dietary preferences can provide valuable insights into the complex ecosystem in which they thrive.

References:
– The Shikra – Pictures and facts – Birds @ thewebsiteofeverything.com
– Accipiter badius (Shikra, Little banded goshawk) – biodiversity explorer
– The Shikra is a bird that embodies brains and bravery – The Hindu
– Shikra: The Ultimate Guide – Operation Migration
– Shikra – Wikipedia