A breeding resident. The most frequently recorded Accipiter in the Waterberg, it occurs widely but sparsely, both across the Waterberg and in the surrounding thorn savanna (52% in, 48% out; recorded in 22% of the Waterberg pentads); frequents woodland, favouring areas with tall, dense trees; secretive and easily overlooked, its presence is usually detected by hearing its twittering call; occurs singly, in pairs while breeding. Breeds during early summer.