Shikras, also known as Accipiter badius, are small, stout hawks found in India. Their distinctive call, often described as “titu-titu,” serves several important purposes in their mating and breeding behavior. This blog post will explore the reasons behind the shikra’s shrill and persistent screaming.

Establishing and Maintaining Pair Bonds

One of the primary reasons shikras scream is to establish and maintain pair bonds. The shrill call is used to communicate with potential mates, signaling their availability and interest in forming a breeding pair. This call is most often heard during the breeding season, as the birds work to attract a suitable partner and solidify their relationship.

Attracting Mates

Image source: ShiKRA by Suvendu suvo

In addition to pair bond maintenance, the shikra’s call is also used to attract potential mates. The loud, persistent vocalizations help to advertise the bird’s presence and availability to other shikras in the area. This is particularly important during the breeding season when the birds are actively seeking out a partner to mate with and establish a nest.

Defending Territory

Shikras are known to be highly territorial birds, and their distinctive call is also used to defend their claimed territory from other shikras or potential threats. The shrill screams serve as a warning to intruders, signaling that the area is already occupied and claimed by a breeding pair. This helps to prevent conflicts and maintain the stability of the shikra’s breeding grounds.

Predator Warning

The shikra’s call can also function as a warning signal to other birds and animals in the area. When a shikra spots a potential predator, such as a larger bird of prey or a mammalian predator, it will emit a series of loud, shrill calls to alert its mate and other nearby birds to the presence of the threat. This helps to increase the overall vigilance and safety of the shikra’s immediate environment.

Hunting Behavior

While the shikra’s call is primarily associated with its mating and breeding behavior, it can also be heard during the bird’s hunting activities. Shikras are skilled hunters that primarily feed on lizards, frogs, grasshoppers, and small birds and fledglings. When a shikra spots potential prey, it may emit a series of short, sharp calls to communicate its intent and focus the attention of its target.

Adaptability and Habitat

Shikras are known for their adaptability and ability to thrive in a variety of habitats, including open jungles, urban gardens, and avenues. Their distinctive call can be heard in these diverse environments, serving as a means of communication and signaling within their respective territories.

Conclusion

The shrill and persistent screaming of the shikra is an integral part of its mating and breeding behavior, as well as its overall communication and survival strategies. From establishing and maintaining pair bonds to defending territory and warning of potential threats, the shikra’s call plays a crucial role in the bird’s life cycle and interactions within its environment.

References:
– Shikra: The Bird That Embodies Brains and Bravery
– Common Hawk-Cuckoo
– Why Do My Conures Scream Like This?
– Shikra Hunting Behavior