h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Don't ask me how I found this but I'm subscribed to a lot of odd things and wonder what I'm doing there but...

I'm by no means an expert (Rich is a lot better ) however, I think your suspicions are indeed correct. It does sound a lot like a Sparrowhawk. We have one that lives near us, it's a beautiful sight to behold.

Linky thing to RSPB

http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/s/sparrowhawk/index.asp

Hello
It does indeed look like a Sparrowhawk. I was so surpised to see this bird whizz across my line of vision, while i was looking out the window. I ran to get my binoculars and got a real close look at it sitting on the fence. It was just awesome watching this bird preening, then trying to look inside the conifer for the small bird. I feel very privelidged to have seen it.....i'm also easily pleased

Venus,

A sparrowhawk's eyes are really intimidating, golden/amber and hypnotising. The thing that tends to clinch the ID though is the sheer speed of its' flight even zig zagging around bushes etc. Colourings and markings depend on which sex you saw, and what age the bird was, as they take a while to get their full adult plumage.

Keep your eyes open for another visit and take a quick look here when you have a minute:

A32762487

Websailor

Ok, after digging out all my bird books and looking at sites, i found it
It was an juvenile Sparrowhawk, which would explain why it nearly crashed into the conifer.

I read your article Webbie, very interesting as per usual.

Thanks for your help guys

Even the adults crash in to things in their hurry. Blind desperation in the case of the poor males I think Glad you found what you were looking for.

I am sure it will be back.

Websailor