we've got a small hawk in the garden, anyone lost one?

[Sally Eva]

currently eating a sparrow

[Brulysses]

if it's got jesses (straps) then it has escaped, otherwise it's probably a Sparrowhawk, there are a few in Dulwich.

[Sally Eva]

I thought at first it had impediments on its feet that were stopping it flying away, but I think it was holding down a sparrow with some difficulty. It has now devoured the sparrow. Taken about 15 mins plus and still not finished.

Sparrows are quite rare now in London (like starlings) but I feed them and have collected quite a lot.

[TheArtfulDogger]

It's good to see sparrow Hawks (a blessing in disguise) as its a sign there is a good supply of small birds in the area, which in turn means the Eco system is thriving.

Birds in my garden go dead still when one is circling above, quite fascinating to watch them.