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The Northern Goshawk is very similar to the Sharp-shinned Hawk, but much larger. It has a long narrow tail, and short rounded wings, allowing for easy maneuverability. It also has distinctive white eyebrow patches. Adults are blue-grey above with a black crown, and pale underside, with fine grey bars. Juvenile birds are similar, but brown above, and streaked below.
The Northern Goshawk is a fearless and savage hunter, using a stealthily approach, followed by a rapid dash to catch their prey by surprise. They prey upon large animals, such as the Snowshoe Hare, and Ruffed Grouse. Not only fearless in pursuit, they are similar in defending their nests. It is not uncommon for a pair of Goshawk to dive at approaching humans who come within 100 m of their nest. When disturbed, the Northern Goshawk will make a loud kak-kak-kak-kak-kak as a warning.
When food supply is scarce, the Northern Goshawk will travel south in hopes of finding more food. Their preferred habitat is coniferous forests, and they spend winters in the south.
The Northern Goshawk will lay 3 or 4 white or pale bluish eggs in a large mass of sticks, lined with fresh sprigs of evergreen, in a tree branch.
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NORTHERN GOSHAWK
Accipiter gentilis
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