Pale Chanting-Goshawk
NamePale Chanting-Goshawk
Common NamePale Chanting-Goshawk
Scientific NameMelierax canorus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)100
Length (cm)52.5
Weight (g)620
Plumage DetailsAdults are predominantly pale grey on the head, back, and upper breast, with a contrasting white rump. The belly and undertail coverts are finely barred grey and white. Primary flight feathers are black, and the cere and legs are bright orange.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive, melodious, and often repeated 'chanting' calls, which are a series of whistling notes that increase in tempo and pitch.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, desert, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in arid and semi-arid regions of southern Africa, extending northwards into parts of East Africa.
Identifying Featuresoverall pale grey plumage, bright orange cere and legs, white rump, finely barred underparts, long tail
Description
This medium-sized raptor is characterized by its overall grey plumage and striking orange cere and legs. It is often seen perched conspicuously on trees or poles in open, arid environments, scanning for prey, and is known for its distinctive vocalizations.
