Sparrowhawks in the UK (1 Viewer)

[paulwfromtheden]

Years ago, I once read that Sparrowhawks were introduced from the continent in order to control the pigeons and sparrows that were living in the Crystal Palace, and Queen Victoria took umbridge at this.
Anyone know if there is any truth in this?

 

[Amarillo]

I'm fairly sure there is no truth in that whatsoever.

 

[robinm]

The following may be story you are referring to.

When the Crystal Palace was invaded with sparrows, organisers and exhibitors were distraught. To shoot the little blighters would shatter the glass. Queen Victoria consulted, who else, the Duke of Wellington, and he replied tersely: "Sparrowhawks, ma'am."

Whether there is any truth in it or any action taken to introduce sparrowhawks I very much doubt.