ExploreBird

Northern Goshawk

Accipiter gentilis

The Northern Goshawk is a fast and agile bird of prey! It has sharp talons and is known for its ability to fly quickly through trees.

Habitat: Forests and woodlands

Appearance

The Northern Goshawk has a slate-grey back and striking white barring across its chest, often appearing fierce with intense red-orange eyes. Its dark cap contrasts with a pale eyebrow stripe. Its short, broad wings and long tail enable agile navigation through dense forests.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderAccipitriformesFamilyAccipitridaeGenusAccipiter

Northern Goshawk

Interesting facts

Goshawks build huge nests, sometimes using the same one for many years, adding to it each time!

In some cultures, goshawks were used in falconry, prized for their skill and courage.

Their fierce red eyes make them look very serious, a perfect look for a top forest hunter.

Young goshawks have bright yellow eyes that slowly change to fiery red as they grow older!

Special abilities

Northern Goshawk has short, broad wings and a long tail that helps them maneuver at high speed through dense forest branches.

Northern Goshawk can ambush prey with incredible speed and surprise, using its cryptic grey plumage to blend into tree shadows.

Northern Goshawk has incredibly powerful talons that help them capture and hold onto fast-moving prey, even larger animals.

Measurements & details

Length: 49-67 cm
Wingspan: 93-127 cm
Weight: 0.5-1.5 kg
Lifespan: 11-15 years
Top Speed: 65 km/h
Clutch Size: 2-4
Incubation: 28-38 days

Diet & Feeding

A fierce forest hunter, Northern Goshawks eat a variety of birds and small to medium-sized mammals.

Primary Foods

Squirrels
Jays
Grouse
Rabbits
Woodpeckers
Snowshoe Hare

Foraging Method

Ambush

Ecological connections

hunts

Eastern Grey Squirrel

Sciurus carolinensis

Main prey, caught with agile forest flight.

hunts

Ruffed Grouse

Bonasa umbellus

A common bird prey, hunted stealthily.

eaten by

Great Horned Owl

Bubo virginianus

May prey on eggs, nestlings, or even adults.

hunts

Snowshoe Hare

Lepus americanus

Important food source in snowy, northern habitats.

Traits

Wildlife

Step into the incredible world of wild animals and plants living freely in nature. From tiny insects to towering trees, it's all part of the wild wonders around us!

Feathered

These are animals covered in soft, beautiful feathers that help them fly, stay warm, and even attract mates! Think of all the amazing birds you know.

Aerial

Discover amazing creatures that spend much of their lives soaring high above the ground, often using wings to fly! They might hunt, travel, or even sleep up in the sky.

Ambush Predator

Meet masters of surprise! These clever hunters hide quietly and wait patiently for their prey to come close before pouncing with a quick move.

Forest

These lush habitats are filled with countless trees, offering homes to a huge variety of plants and animals! Immerse yourself in the green canopy.

Carnivorous

Discover fierce hunters and clever predators that get all their energy from eating other animals. They play a vital role in keeping nature's balance.

Diurnal

Wake up with creatures that are most active during the day! They love the sunshine for finding food, playing, and exploring.

Speedster

Discover creatures that dart, zip, and fly with incredible swiftness, making them masters of rapid movement in their habitats. They are built for speed, whether chasing prey or escaping danger.