The Shikra, also known as the little banded goshawk, is a small raptor that belongs to the family Accipitridae. Adult Shikras typically measure around 32 cm (12.6 inches) in length, making them relatively small birds of prey.

Shikra Size and Appearance

• Average Length: 32 cm (12.6 inches)
• Wingspan: The wingspan of a Shikra is typically around 55-65 cm (21.7-25.6 inches).
• Weight: Male Shikras weigh around 120-180 grams, while females are slightly larger, weighing 150-210 grams.
• Plumage: Adult Shikras have a distinctive appearance. Males have a reddish iris, blue-grey upperparts, and fine brownish-orange barring on their underparts. Females, on the other hand, have a less red (yellowish orange) iris and brownish upperparts with heavier barring on the underparts.
• Juvenile Plumage: Juvenile Shikras have dark streaks and spots on the upper breast, and their wings are narrowly barred, while their tail has dark but narrow bands.

Habitat and Behavior

Image source: SHIKRA by Shiv’s fotografia

Shikras are found in a range of habitats, including forests, farmland, and urban areas. They are usually seen singly or in pairs, and their flight is typical with flaps and glides. During the breeding season, pairs will soar on thermals and stoop at each other.

Feeding Habits

Shikras are skilled hunters that feed on a variety of prey, including:

• Rodents
• Squirrels
• Small birds
• Small reptiles (mainly lizards, but sometimes small snakes)
• Insects

They will also descend to the ground to feast on emerging winged termites and may even resort to feeding on carrion in rare instances.

Breeding and Nesting

The breeding season for Shikras in India is during the summer, from March to June. They build their nests on platforms similar to those of crows, using twigs and grass. Both sexes participate in the nest-building process.

Cultural Significance

Shikras have been a favorite among falconers in India and Pakistan due to the ease with which they can be trained. They were frequently used to procure food for more prized falcons, and their pluck and ability to take much larger birds, including partridges, crows, and even young peafowl, were highly valued.

In conclusion, the Shikra is a small but powerful bird of prey that is widely distributed across Asia and Africa. Despite their relatively small size, they are skilled hunters and have been an important part of falconry traditions in the region.

References:
– List of birds of Sri Lanka
– eBird – Shikra
– YouTube – Shikra
– Birds of IIT Kanpur – Shikra
– Wikipedia – Shikra