American Goshawk
NameAmerican Goshawk
Common NameAmerican Goshawk
Scientific NameAccipiter gentilis
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)110
Length (cm)53.5
Weight (g)900
Plumage DetailsAdults display dark slate-gray upperparts, a blackish cap, and a distinctive white supercilium above bright yellow to orange-red eyes. Their underparts are pale gray to white, finely barred with dark gray. The long tail is dark with several broad dark bands. Juveniles are brown above with heavily streaked underparts.
Vocalization / CallThe call is typically a rapid series of harsh, chattering 'kek-kek-kek' notes, often given when agitated or defending a nest. It can also produce a slower, more drawn-out 'kyah' sound.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across the northern hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia. In North America, it breeds in extensive mature forests from Alaska and Canada south through the western mountains to Mexico, and across the northern Great Lakes region and New England.
Identifying FeaturesLarge, powerful accipiter build, Dark slate-gray upperparts (adults), Prominent white supercilium (eyebrow stripe), Finely barred underparts (adults), Long tail with dark bands, Broad, rounded wings, Yellow to orange-red eyes (adults)
Description
The American Goshawk is a powerful, medium-large raptor known for its broad, rounded wings and long tail, adapted for agile flight through dense forests. Adults have striking dark slate-gray upperparts, finely barred underparts, and a prominent white supercilium. This fierce predator primarily hunts birds and mammals within its woodland habitat.
