Description
The Shikra (Tachyspiza badia) is a small and agile bird of prey belonging to the Accipitridae family. It is one of the familiar raptors of the Indian subcontinent and is widely distributed across Asia and Africa. The species was historically classified under the scientific name Accipiter badius, which remains a useful search term for older bird references and photography searches.
This original wildlife photograph captures a Shikra perched on a branch in Gujarat, India, highlighting the compact body, long barred tail and characteristic raptor profile of this highly adaptable hunter.
Shikras can be found in a wide range of environments, including woodlands, savanna, scrub, agricultural landscapes, gardens and urban areas. They often use elevated perches to watch for prey before making rapid hunting flights. Their diet can include small birds, mammals, lizards, insects and other small animals.
The Shikra is a resident species in India. The State of India’s Birds 2025 assessment places it in the Low Conservation Priority category, with a Least Concern global Red List status and Schedule I protection under India’s Wildlife Protection Act. The national long-term trend is classified as inconclusive, while the current annual trend is classified as stable.
The species has also been documented breeding in Gujarat, including a recent study of Shikras in Polo Forest, demonstrating its importance as a resident raptor within the state’s woodland ecosystems.
Product Details
Common Name: Shikra
Scientific Name: Tachyspiza badia
Older Scientific Name: Accipiter badius
Alternative Name: Little Banded Goshawk
Family: Accipitridae
Type: Small Raptor / Bird of Prey
Behaviour: Perched on a branch
Location: Gujarat, India
Status in India: Resident
Habitat: Open woodland, scrubland, farmland, gardens, parks, savanna and other landscapes with trees and open spaces
Diet: Small birds, lizards, rodents, insects, frogs and other small prey
Global Conservation Status: Least Concern
Indian Conservation Priority: Low Priority
Wild Life Protection Act: Schedule I
Photographer: Amarjeetsinh Jhala
Photography Licensing
This Shikra (Tachyspiza badia) photograph is available for licensing for different applications.
Personal Use: Suitable for private collections, home décor and personal projects.
Commercial Use: Suitable for advertising, websites, digital marketing, promotional material and other commercial applications.
Printing & Publication: Suitable for books, magazines, calendars, field guides, printed publications, exhibitions and other professional publishing requirements.
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