In Praise of the Sparrowhawk
In Praise of the Sparrowhawk
This much maligned predator is in need of a champion – and Athene is that patron!
Often blamed for taking little fluffy blue tits from bird tables – Athene feeds her table all year round especially for the occasional raid by this awesome bird. Flying in along the hedge like a jet fighter travelling at speeds up to 35-40mph, this bird is able to flip in mid air or somersault over a hedge – leaving just a few feathers still spiraling in the air as it rushes off with its kill – to feed its young. After all if we are foolish enough to feed our birds – like Athene does – be prepared to have something taken by the skill and wit of the sparrowhawk – after all it doesn’t take up permanent residency at the bird table – but chooses against all odds -these days – to remain magnificently wild