Shikras, also known as Accipiter badius, are small birds of prey found in Asia and Africa. These raptors are known for their impressive hunting skills, feeding on a variety of small animals such as rodents, squirrels, small birds, reptiles, and insects. Shikras are monogamous and form lifelong pairs, and their breeding season typically occurs between March and June in India.

Breeding Season and Nesting Behavior

The breeding season for shikras is marked by unique behaviors, such as soaring on thermals and stooping at each other during flight. These displays often draw alarms from smaller birds and squirrels, as they recognize the presence of a potential predator.

Shikras build a platform nest similar to that of crows, using twigs, grass, and other natural materials. Both the male and female shikra participate in the nest-building process, with the male bringing the twigs and the female arranging them into a sturdy structure.

Egg Laying and Incubation

Image source: ShiKRA by Suvendu suvo

During the breeding season, the female shikra typically lays a clutch of 3 to 4 pale bluish-grey eggs, which are stippled on the broad end with black markings. The incubation period for shikra eggs lasts between 18 to 21 days.

During the incubation period, the male shikra is responsible for bringing food to the nest, while the female remains on the eggs, ensuring they are kept warm and protected. The female shikra is the primary incubator, dedicating most of her time to sitting on the eggs and ensuring their successful hatching.

Chick Rearing and Fledgling

Once the eggs hatch, the chicks are cared for by both parents. The male shikra continues to bring food to the nest, while the female feeds the young and protects them from potential predators.

Fledgling, the stage when the chicks first take flight, usually occurs when the chicks are around one month old. After fledgling, the young shikras remain with their parents for their first year of life, learning essential hunting and survival skills from their experienced parents.

Conservation Status and Threats

According to the IUCN Red List, the total population size of the shikra is estimated to be between 500,000 to 999,999 mature individuals. The European population consists of 50 to 210 breeding pairs, while the Arabian population has around 600 breeding pairs.

While shikras are not currently facing major threats, the loss of their native habitat and illegal trading may pose serious threats to their population in the future. It is important to continue monitoring and protecting these skilled hunters to ensure their long-term survival.

In conclusion, shikras lay their eggs during the breeding season, which typically occurs between March and June in India. The female shikra is responsible for incubating the eggs, while the male provides food and protection for the nest. After the chicks hatch, both parents work together to care for and raise the young, ensuring their successful fledgling and integration into the wild.

References:
– Animalia.bio – Shikra
– Thai National Parks – Shikra
– The Peregrine Fund – Shikra
– Operation Migration – Shikra: The Ultimate Guide