Species Guide: Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis)
Family: Accipitridae
The Northern Goshawk, scientifically known as Accipiter gentilis, is a powerful bird of prey belonging to the family Accipitridae. It is widely distributed across the forests of North America, Europe, and Asia, making it one of the most widespread woodland raptors in the Northern Hemisphere. This species is often regarded as an apex or near-apex predator within forest ecosystems, known for its speed, agility, and stealth when hunting.
Goshawks have long fascinated ornithologists and falconers alike due to their formidable hunting abilities and strong territorial instincts. Historically associated with nobility in falconry traditions, the species continues to hold cultural and ecological significance.
Appearance
Adult goshawks are large, robust hawks characterized by broad wings and a long, rounded tail that aids maneuverability in dense forests. Their plumage typically consists of slate-gray to brown upperparts and lighter underparts with fine barring. A distinctive white stripe above the eye and a dark cap give the bird a fierce expression.
Females are not only larger but also often appear browner in coloration. Their increased size provides an advantage in capturing larger prey, contributing to reduced competition between sexes.
Juvenile goshawks differ markedly from adults. They are predominantly brown with streaked or spotted underparts rather than barred patterns. Their eyes are typically yellowish, transitioning to orange or red as they mature.
Diet
The goshawk is a carnivorous and highly opportunistic predator. Its diet varies depending on geographic location and prey availability, but primarily includes birds and small to medium-sized mammals. Common prey species include pigeons, crows, grouse, squirrels, and rabbits.
In some regions, birds can constitute a significant proportion of the diet, while mammals dominate in others. Goshawks are capable of taking prey up to half their own body weight and may occasionally store surplus food for later consumption.
Habitat
Goshawks are strongly associated with forested environments, particularly mature or old-growth woodlands with dense canopy cover. These habitats provide suitable nesting sites, protection from predators, and abundant prey.
They inhabit both coniferous and deciduous forests and may use adjacent open areas for hunting. During nonbreeding periods, they can expand into more varied habitats, including woodland edges and lower elevation areas.
Resident
Winter
Behavior
Goshawks are solitary and territorial birds, especially during the breeding season. They are known for their aggressive defense of nesting areas and may attack perceived threats, including humans, that approach too closely.
Their hunting behavior is characterized by ambush tactics. They often perch quietly before launching rapid, low-level pursuits through dense vegetation, using their agility to navigate tight spaces. (Forest Service R&D)
The call of the goshawk is typically described as a harsh, repeated “kie-kie-kie,” especially during breeding or when alarmed.
Northern Goshawk Call:
Breeding usually begins in early spring. Nests are built high in trees and may be reused across years. Females lay approximately three to four eggs, incubating them for about 35 to 38 days. After hatching, chicks remain in the nest for several weeks before fledging, though they may stay dependent on parents for some time afterward.
Biometrics
| Length | 46-61 cm |
| Wing Span | 98-127 cm |
| Body Weight | 630-2000 grams |
| Longevity | 11 Years |
Natural Predators
Adult goshawks have few natural predators due to their size and position in the food chain. However, eggs and juveniles may be vulnerable to predation by larger raptors such as great horned owls and other forest predators.
Competition with other large birds of prey, including owls and hawks, may also impact nesting success, particularly when they occupy or take over nesting sites.
Relationship to Humans
Goshawks have a long and complex relationship with humans. In medieval Europe, they were highly prized in falconry and often associated with nobility. The species name “gentilis” reflects this historical connection, as only members of the aristocracy were traditionally permitted to use them in hunting.
In folklore and cultural narratives, goshawks are often depicted as symbols of power, precision, and ferocity. However, their relationship with humans has not always been positive. They have been persecuted due to perceived threats to game birds and poultry, and their nests have historically been targeted.
In modern times, they are valued by birdwatchers and conservationists, though their secretive nature makes them difficult to observe in the wild.
Conservation Status
The Northern Goshawk is currently classified as a species of Least Concern on a global scale, indicating that it is not endangered. However, regional populations may face pressures. Habitat loss, particularly the reduction of mature forests due to logging, fire, and land development, is considered the primary threat.
In some areas, populations have declined or experienced local extinctions, followed by reintroduction or recovery efforts. For example, in parts of the United Kingdom, goshawks were once eradicated but have since re-established breeding populations. Overall population trends are variable depending on region, but conservation efforts continue to focus on preserving suitable forest habitats and minimizing human disturbance.
U.K.
Conservation Status
Global
Conservation Status
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References
- Lovette, I. et al. (2016) . The Cornell Lab of Ornithology, handbook of bird biology. Third edition. Chichester: Wiley. [Accessed 25/04/2026]
- Morrison, M.L. and Cooper Ornithological Society. (2006) The northern goshawk : a technical assessment of its status, ecology, and management. Edited by M.L. Morrison. Camarillo, CA: Cooper Ornithological Society. [Accessed 25/04/2026]
CITATIONS
- By IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, species assessors and the authors of the spatial data., CC BY-SA 3.0. [Accessed 25/04/2026] ↩︎
