Shikras, also known as little banded goshawks, are birds of prey that primarily feed on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. While shikras are known to have a diverse diet, there is no specific data or evidence to suggest that they consume raccoons. Raccoons are not native to the Indian subcontinent, where shikras are commonly found, and therefore it is unlikely that shikras would have the opportunity to prey on raccoons in their natural habitat.

Shikras’ Diet and Feeding Habits

Shikras are known to be opportunistic predators, meaning they will adapt their diet to the available food sources in their environment. Their primary prey includes:

• Small mammals, such as rodents, squirrels, and hares
• Birds, including small songbirds, pigeons, and doves
• Reptiles, such as lizards and snakes

Shikras typically hunt by perching on a high vantage point and then swooping down to capture their prey. They use their sharp talons and hooked beak to kill and tear apart their prey.

Raccoons and Their Habitat

Image source: ShiKRA by Suvendu suvo

Raccoons are native to North America and are not found in the natural habitats of shikras, which are primarily located in the Indian subcontinent, including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Raccoons have been introduced to some parts of Europe and Asia, but their populations are generally limited to these introduced areas.

Raccoons are known for their distinctive black masks around their eyes and their dexterous front paws, which they use to manipulate objects. They are omnivorous, meaning they eat a variety of plant and animal matter, including:

• Fruits and nuts
• Insects and small invertebrates
• Small mammals, such as mice and voles
• Bird eggs and nestlings
• Garbage and human food waste

Raccoons are often found in urban and suburban areas, where they can thrive by taking advantage of human-provided food sources and shelter.

Potential Encounters Between Shikras and Raccoons

While there is no direct evidence of shikras preying on raccoons, it is possible that in rare circumstances, a shikra might encounter and attempt to hunt a raccoon. This could occur in areas where raccoons have been introduced or have strayed from their native range and come into contact with shikras.

In such cases, the shikra might see the raccoon as a potential food source and attempt to capture it. However, raccoons are known to be relatively large and aggressive animals, and they may be able to defend themselves against a shikra’s attack.

It’s important to note that these types of encounters would be highly unusual and unlikely to occur in the natural habitats of shikras, where raccoons are not native.

Conclusion

In summary, while shikras are known to have a diverse diet, there is no specific evidence to suggest that they consume raccoons. Raccoons are not native to the regions where shikras are commonly found, and therefore the likelihood of these two species encountering each other in the wild is low. However, in rare cases where raccoons have been introduced or have strayed from their native range, it is possible that a shikra might attempt to prey on a raccoon, though the outcome of such an encounter would be uncertain.

References:
– Shikra (Little Banded Goshawk) – Identification, Habitat, Diet & Facts
– Raccoon – Habitat, Diet & Facts
– Shikra (Accipiter badius) – Birds of India