MALE SPARROWHAWK ON STARLING

On May 14 2025, I was weeding in the garden when I heard alarm calls from birds around me and a large bird flew in (brushing my head) and landing in the garden about 25 feet away. It was a male Sparrowhawk, clutching a Starling that was still alive and calling continuously. I ran indoors to get my camera not expecting the Sparrowhawk to still be there when I returned; but it was. I was able to approach very slowly and carefully – taking photographs as I got nearer – and eventually got to within about 10 feet or so, with the Sparrowhawk not seemingly knowing what to do with the Starling. I took around 65 photos and within 10 minutes or so the bird then began pulling the Starlings feathers out – it was alive throughout – then it flew off (with its prey) into the cover of bushes in my neighbours garden.