Eastern Chanting-Goshawk
NameEastern Chanting-Goshawk
Common NameEastern Chanting-Goshawk
Scientific NameMelierax poliopterus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)100
Length (cm)52
Weight (g)625
Plumage DetailsAdults have uniform pale grey upperparts, head, and breast. The belly and flanks are white with fine, dark grey barring. The rump is white, and the long tail is blackish with white tips. The cere and legs are bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive, melodious 'chanting' calls, which are a series of piping whistles that ascend and descend in pitch, often given from a prominent perch.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in East Africa, ranging from southern Somalia and eastern Ethiopia, south through Kenya and Tanzania, to northern Mozambique.
Identifying Featuresuniform grey upperparts, finely barred white underparts, bright yellow cere and legs, long tail, upright perching posture
Description
This medium-sized raptor is characterized by its sleek grey plumage and finely barred white underparts. It is often seen perching conspicuously on trees or poles in open habitats, scanning the ground for prey.
