Gray-headed Goshawk
NameGray-headed Goshawk
Common NameGray-headed Goshawk
Scientific NameAccipiter poliocephalus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)55
Length (cm)34
Weight (g)215
Plumage DetailsAdults have a pale gray head, neck, and upperparts, with darker gray flight feathers. The underparts are pure white. The cere, orbital ring, and legs are bright orange-red, and the eyes are typically red.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of high-pitched, rapid 'kek-kek-kek' or 'ki-ki-ki' notes, often accelerating in tempo.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in New Guinea, the Bismarck Archipelago, the Moluccas (Indonesia), and northern Australia (Cape York Peninsula).
Identifying FeaturesPale gray head and upperparts, Pure white underparts, Bright orange-red cere, orbital ring, and legs, Red eyes, Slender build
Description
The Gray-headed Goshawk is a small, slender raptor characterized by its pale gray head and upperparts contrasting with clean white underparts. It is an agile hunter found in tropical forests, often perching inconspicuously within the canopy.
