Which characteristic best defines an accipiter?

An accipiter is best defined by having short, rounded wings and a long tail, which are adaptations that facilitate agile flight through dense habitats such as forests. This characteristic allows accipiters, such as sharp-shinned hawks and Cooper's hawks, to maneuver quickly and change direction rapidly while pursuing prey, often requiring a stealthy approach and swift movements.

Other features of an accipiter include their relatively smaller size compared to other raptors, which contributes to their hunting success in tighter spaces. The wing shape promotes quick acceleration and agility, making them efficient hunters of birds and small mammals. The long tail helps with balance and steering during high-speed pursuits, further highlighting their specialization for hunting in dense environments.

In contrast, long wings and short tails are typically associated with birds that soar and glide, while strong, broad wings are characteristic of larger raptors designed for extensive flight over open areas. Dark-colored feathers and bright eyes might describe other bird species but do not specifically define an accipiter's physical adaptations for hunting and survival.