Dark Chanting-Goshawk
NameDark Chanting-Goshawk
Common NameDark Chanting-Goshawk
Scientific NameMelierax metabates
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)100
Length (cm)50
Weight (g)800
Plumage DetailsAdults are mostly grey, with darker grey on the back and wings. The underparts are finely barred grey and white, giving a wavy pattern. The cere and legs are bright orange-red, and the eyes are reddish-brown.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive 'chanting' calls, which are a series of clear, piping or whistling notes that increase in tempo and volume, often given from a prominent perch.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across sub-Saharan Africa, extending from Senegal east to Ethiopia and south to northern South Africa, with a disjunct population in the southwestern Arabian Peninsula.
Identifying FeaturesUniform grey plumage, Bright orange cere and legs, Finely barred underparts, Upright posture when perched, Distinctive 'chanting' vocalizations
Description
This medium-sized raptor is characterized by its uniform grey plumage, bright orange cere and legs, and finely barred underparts. It is often seen perched conspicuously on trees or poles, actively hunting small vertebrates and large insects in open woodlands and savannas.
