Muscat: The Environment Authority in Al Buraimi Governorate has documented, for the first time in the governorate, the breeding of the Chestnut Sparrowhawk, locally known as “al Baidaq” and scientifically classified as Accipiter badius.
The record represents a significant addition to the biodiversity database and reflects the ecological integrity and health of natural habitats across the governorate.
The Chestnut Sparrowhawk is a resident raptor species in the Sultanate of Oman. However, the documentation of its nesting activity is considered relatively rare, owing to its preference for building nests in densely foliated trees, which makes detection challenging.
The female typically lays two eggs, although clutch sizes may, in some instances, reach up to six. The species measures between 26 and 30 centimetres in length, with a wingspan ranging from 60 to 70 centimetres, and closely resembles the Shikra (Accipiter badius).
Males are characterised by a dark bluish-grey upper body with black-tipped wings, while females display less white on the underparts and reduced black markings at the wing tips. The species is also distinguished by its reddish facial tones and swift flight capabilities, with females being notably larger than males.
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