Masterful Hunters: A Dive into the Lives of Eurasian Goshawks

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Aves

Order: Accipitriforms

Family: Accipitridae

Genus: Accipiter

Species: Accipiter gentilis

The Eurasian Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) stands as a majestic and enigmatic raptor, capturing the imagination of bird enthusiasts and wildlife observers alike. This bird of prey, known for its powerful build and impressive hunting prowess, inhabiting diverse ecosystems across Europe and Asia. Let's delve into the fascinating world of the Eurasian Goshawk and uncover the secrets behind its aerial mastery.

The Eurasian Goshawk is a bird of regal stature, boasting a robust build and striking plumage. Adult individuals display a distinctive slate-grey coloration on their upperparts, while their underparts feature varying shades of white, darker greys, blacks and brown. They feature piercing yellow eyes and sharp, hooked beaks which altogether add to the formidable aura that surrounds these raptors. The main difference between males and females within this species would be that female Eurasian goshawks tend to be much larger than the males. Females are around 58-69 centimetres (23-27 inches) long and have a wingspan of 108-127 centimetres (43-50 inches), whereas the much smaller males have a length of around 46-63 centimetres (18-25 inches) and a wingspan of around 89-122 centimetres (35-48 inches).

These majestic birds have an average life span of around 7 years within the wild, with the oldest ever goshawk recorded by ring to be 19 years of age, and an apparent recorded age in captivity of 29 years old. They are able to reach speeds of up to 40 mph (64.4 km/h) and have a shrill, urgent- sounding ‘kee-kee-kee’ call that you can hear below.

Eurasian Goshawks are adaptable birds, thriving in a range of habitats from dense forests to open woodlands. They are found across Europe and Asia, with their distribution spanning from the Iberian Peninsula to Japan. These birds exhibit remarkable territorial behaviour, fiercely defending their hunting grounds from intruders.

Renowned for their exceptional flying abilities, Goshawks are agile and efficient hunters. They navigate through dense forests with remarkable precision, utilizing their short wings and long tails to manoeuvre effortlessly. The distinctive flight pattern, characterized by rapid twists and turns, showcases their expertise in navigating complex environments.

Goshawks are formidable predators with a diverse diet. Their dietary menu includes a variety of birds and mammals, with a preference for medium-sized prey. These raptors employ stealth and surprise technique as they hunt, often utilizing the element of surprise by ambushing their quarry from concealed perches.

Breeding season for Eurasian Goshawks typically begins in the early spring. During courtship displays, these birds engage in captivating aerial acrobatics, reinforcing the bond between mates. The female is responsible for constructing the nest, usually situated high in a tree, where she lays a small clutch of eggs. It usually takes a female around 6 days to lay a clutch of 4 eggs with those eggs having an incubation period of 35-38 days. The chicks of the goshawk usually become indepedant fledglings after around 3 months.

The ICUN Red List of Threatened Species categorises this species to be of least concern with the number of breading pairs of Eurasian goshawks in the wild, globally, is estimated at 160,000-210,000. However, these were once extinct within the UK with only 400-500 of those breeding pairs located here and despite their adaptability, Eurasian Goshawks face conservation challenges, including habitat loss and human disturbances. Efforts to conserve these magnificent birds involve habitat preservation, research on their behaviour, and addressing potential threats such as illegal trapping and poisoning.

The Eurasian Goshawk, with its majestic presence and aerial prowess, stands as a symbol of the intricate balance within ecosystems. Understanding and appreciating these raptors is crucial for their conservation. As we delve into the world of the Eurasian Goshawk, we gain not only a glimpse into the life of a remarkable bird but also a deeper appreciation for the diverse and intricate tapestry of nature.

Photos of Eurasian Goshawk (Name: Nyyrikki) taken by Ella Munro at the British Bird of Prey Centre in Carmarthen

Audio of Goshawk call from Jorick van Arneym / xeno-canto.org

ICUN status from the ICUN Red List of Threatened Species