Shikra look-alikes

Key differences

The Shikra is generally smaller and more slender than the Eurasian Sparrowhawk. Adult male Shikra has rufous barring on the underparts, while male Sparrowhawk has finer rufous-orange barring. Female Shikra is browner than female Sparrowhawk, which is grey-brown. The Shikra's tail bands are broader and fewer. In flight, Shikra often shows a more contrasting white underwing coverts and a more pronounced 'flap-flap-glide' pattern. Sparrowhawks have a more undulating flight.

Key differences

Found in Africa. The Little Sparrowhawk is smaller than the Shikra. It has a distinctive white rump (often visible in flight) which the Shikra lacks. The underparts of the Little Sparrowhawk are more finely barred, and its tail has more numerous, narrower bands.

Key differences

Found in Asia. The Besra is generally darker above and more heavily barred below than the Shikra. It often has a more prominent dark throat stripe and a darker head. The tail bands are typically narrower and more numerous. Besra prefers denser forest habitats, while Shikra is more associated with open woodlands and cultivated areas.