Aves Accipiter nisus, commonly known as the European Sparrowhawk or in Spanish, gavilan común, is a small bird of prey widely found across the Comunidad Valenciana and other parts of Europe and Asia.

This bird is part of the family Accipitridae and is renowned for its agility and speed, especially in wooded areas where it excels at navigating through trees while chasing its prey.

• Size: The European Sparrowhawk is relatively small, with males typically measuring between 29–34 cm in length, whereas females, which are larger, measure about 35–41 cm.
• Wingspan: Their wingspan ranges from 58 to 80 cm, again with females having a broader wingspan.
• Plumage: Males generally display a blue-grey upper side with orange-barred underparts, while females are brownish in color with less distinct barring.
• Habitat: Often found in forests, woodlands, and occasionally urban areas in the Comunidad Valenciana, these birds adapt well to various environments that provide cover and prey.
• Diet: Their diet primarily consists of small birds which they hunt with precision. They occasionally consume small mammals and insects.
• Nesting: Sparrowhawks build nests using twigs, lining them with softer materials. They typically lay 3 to 6 eggs, depending on environmental conditions.
• Conservation Status: The European Sparrowhawk is currently listed as Least Concern due to its stable population.

The European Sparrowhawk plays a crucial role in controlling the populations of smaller bird species, making them an important part of the ecosystem in the Comunidad Valenciana.