Japan is home to several species of hawks that are found across the country. The most common hawks in Japan include the Northern Goshawk, Eurasian Sparrowhawk, Japanese Sparrowhawk, Black Kite, Grey-faced Buzzard, and Eastern Buzzard.
Northern Goshawk
The Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) is one of the most widespread hawks in Japan. It is a large, powerful hawk with piercing red eyes and plumage that varies from slate-gray to bluish-gray above and whitish below with fine gray barring. The wings are broad with rounded tips. The Northern Goshawk inhabits mixed forests across Japan, from Hokkaido in the north to the Ryukyu Islands in the south.
Northern Goshawks are adept hunters, taking medium-sized birds and mammals like rabbits, squirrels and small game birds. They hunt from concealed perches, swiftly flying out to snatch prey with their sharp talons. During the breeding season, they become highly territorial and will aggressively defend their nesting sites.
While Northern Goshawk populations are generally stable, they face threats from habitat loss and are still persecuted by some as a pest species. They are protected under the Wildlife Protection and Hunting Management Law in Japan.
Eurasian Sparrowhawk
The Eurasian Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus) is a small, slender hawk found throughout Japan. Adults have bluish-gray upperparts and orange-barred underparts. They have long tails with narrow white bands. The Eurasian Sparrowhawk inhabits wooded areas, especially around forest edges, parks and gardens.
Eurasian Sparrowhawks are agile flyers that hunt small birds like finches and tits by flying through dense vegetation. They often perch inconspicuously before making a rapid dash to catch prey. Sparrowhawks are ferocious defenders of their nests during breeding season. The female is up to 25% larger than the male.
Eurasian Sparrowhawk numbers declined during the mid-20th century due to pesticide use but have since recovered. They adapt well to living near humans and can be found in many cities and suburbs throughout Japan.
Japanese Sparrowhawk
The Japanese Sparrowhawk (Accipiter gularis) is endemic to Japan and is found across the main islands of Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu. It is very similar to the Eurasian Sparrowhawk but is darker gray above with finer barring below. The male’s wings are also shorter and more rounded.
Japanese Sparrowhawks occur mainly in dense, mature forests. They hunt small woodland birds, gliding through the trees and surprising prey. Though widespread, the Japanese Sparrowhawk has a fragmented population and faces threats from deforestation. It is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.
Black Kite
The Black Kite (Milvus migrans) is a medium-sized raptor and one of the most common large birds found throughout Japan. It has dark brown plumage with lighter brown patches on the wings. The forked tail helps distinguish it from other raptors.
Black Kites are scavengers that soar and glide gracefully on air currents, scanning the ground for carrion and discarded scraps of food. They often gather en masse at sites with abundant food sources. Black Kites are also opportunistic hunters, taking small mammals, birds and insects. They are a fixture in cities where they clean up garbage.
Though still abundant, Black Kite numbers in Japan have declined by an estimated 20-49% over the last few decades due to habitat loss and poisoning. Nevertheless, they remain a very common sight in the skies over Japanese towns and cities.
Grey-faced Buzzard
The Grey-faced Buzzard (Butastur indicus) is a stocky hawk found throughout the Japanese archipelago except Hokkaido. Adults have a grey head contrasting with their rich brown body plumage. The wings have dark patches when seen from below.
Grey-faced Buzzards inhabit various wooded habitats from lowlands to mountains. Their broad wings allow them to soar over the forest canopy as they search for small mammals, reptiles and large insects. They hunt by swiftly gliding down from a perch to capture prey on the ground.
Although still fairly common, the Grey-faced Buzzard has experienced population declines on parts of its range. Deforestation is a major threat. The species is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.
Eastern Buzzard
The Eastern Buzzard (Buteo japonicus) is Japan’s most common resident large raptor. It has variable plumage but is generally chocolate brown above with a white throat and breast streaked with dark markings. The wings are long and broad.
Eastern Buzzards occupy open wooded areas across Japan from Hokkaido to the Ryukyus. They chiefly hunt small mammals, reptiles and large insects, soaring over open terrain and perching on trees, poles or wires. Birds, amphibians and carrion are also taken.
Eastern Buzzard populations are currently stable. They can adapt to some human disturbance and are often seen perched along roads or near development.
Other Hawks
Additional hawk species that may be encountered in Japan, especially during migration or wintering periods, include:
- Common Buzzard
- Rough-legged Buzzard
- Eurasian Kestrel
- Oriental Honey Buzzard
- Crested Honey Buzzard
- Peregrine Falcon
Threats to Japanese Hawks
The main threats facing hawks in Japan include:
- Habitat loss and fragmentation as natural areas are converted to farmland, plantations, and urban development
- Declines in prey populations due to factors like pesticide use and invasive species
- Poisoning from pesticides and other chemicals
- Collisions with vehicles and infrastructure
- Illegal shooting and trapping
- Disturbance of nest sites
- Effects of climate change
Several Japanese hawks are listed as Near Threatened or Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Ongoing conservation efforts like habitat protection, nest monitoring programs, and reducing pesticide usage can help ensure healthy populations of Japan’s hawks into the future.
Importance of Hawks in Japan
Hawks play important ecological roles in Japan’s ecosystems. As predators, they help regulate prey populations and cull sick or weak individuals. Scavengers like the Black Kite help clean up carrion and organic waste. Hawks also serve as indicator species – declining numbers may signal broader environmental problems.
Culturally, hawks have a long history in Japanese art and mythology. They are seen as brave, sharp-eyed predators and symbols of power or nobility. The Northern Goshawk is particularly iconic, appearing on family crests and coat of arms. Some shrines and temples have hawk motifs and statues.
For bird watchers and nature enthusiasts, Japan’s hawks provide opportunities to observe magnificent predators in action. Seeing a hawk up close is a memorable wildlife experience.
Watching Hawks in Japan
Some of the best places to observe hawks in Japan include:
- Forests – Spot Northern Goshawks, buzzards and sparrowhawks in forested areas like Nikko National Park and Shiretoko National Park.
- Coastal regions – Look for migrant Peregrine Falcons and Eastern Buzzards along coasts.
- Urban green spaces – City dwellers can often see Black Kites, Eurasian Sparrowhawks and other adaptable species.
- Migration hotspots – Hawks funnel through sites like the Miomote Pass on Hokkaido’s eastern peninsula during migration.
- Rural open country – Farmland and grasslands harbor high densities of Common and Eastern Buzzards.
The spring and fall migration periods offer the most hawk sightings. A good pair of binoculars helps pick out identifying features. Patience is required as the birds are often solitary and soaring high in the sky.
Conclusion
Japan hosts an impressive diversity of hawks, from tiny sparrowhawks to substantial Northern Goshawks. While many species are declining, they remain essential components of Japan’s wildlife and cultural heritage. Protecting habitats, monitoring populations, and appreciating their ecological value will help secure the future of Japan’s hawks.
