Gabar Goshawk
NameGabar Goshawk
Common NameGabar Goshawk
Scientific NameMicronisus gabar
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)52.5
Length (cm)32
Weight (g)200
Plumage DetailsAdults of the grey morph have slate-grey upperparts, head, and breast, with finely barred white and dark grey underparts. The rump is white, and the tail is dark with several broad black bands and a white tip. The cere and legs are bright red-orange. A melanistic morph also exists, which is entirely sooty black with red cere and legs.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a high-pitched, whistling 'kew-kew-kew' or 'klee-klee-klee' often given during display flights. It also produces a softer 'chip-chip-chip' call.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, extending into parts of the Arabian Peninsula. It inhabits savannas, acacia woodlands, dry forests, and riverine areas, often near human settlements.
Identifying FeaturesSmall, slender grey raptor, Finely barred underparts (grey morph), Bright red cere and legs, White rump, Banded tail, Melanistic morph (all black with red cere/legs)
Description
The Gabar Goshawk is a small, slender raptor characterized by its grey plumage and finely barred underparts in the common morph. It is an agile hunter, often seen perching conspicuously in trees or soaring over open woodlands and savannas.
