Which group of birds is known for their high-speed maneuverability while hunting avian prey in forests?

The group of birds known for their high-speed maneuverability while hunting avian prey in forests is Accipiters. Accipiters, which include species such as the Sharp-shinned Hawk and Cooper's Hawk, are characterized by their short wings and long tails. This physical adaptation allows them to navigate through dense vegetation and make sharp turns during flight, enabling them to pursue smaller birds effectively.

Unlike the broader-winged Buteos, which are more adept at soaring and hunting from a perch, or the fast but less maneuverable Falcons, Accipiters excel in agility and speed in heavy cover. Strigiformes, or owls, are primarily nocturnal hunters and possess different adaptations suited for hunting in low light rather than high-speed aerial pursuits during daylight.

The unique adaptations of Accipiters make them exceptional hunters in forested environments, where their ability to swiftly change direction is crucial for capturing agile prey like songbirds.