Grey-headed Goshawk

The Grey-headed Goshawk, a medium-sized raptor, presents a striking figure with its grey upperparts that become paler around the head and neck. Its wings are a darker shade, contrasting with the predominantly white underparts. A distinctive red-orange cere and legs add a splash of color to this lightly built bird. Adult Grey-headed Goshawks measure between 30 to 38 centimeters in length, with females typically out-sizing their male counterparts. Juvenile birds can be identified by their dark brown wings.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Grey-headed Goshawk, look for the combination of grey and white plumage, red-orange legs, and cere. The size difference between the sexes can also be a helpful clue, with females being noticeably larger. Juveniles may be distinguished by their darker wing coloration.

Habitat

This species is known to inhabit the lush forests of New Guinea and its adjacent islands, where it can also be found in forest edges and areas of secondary growth.

Distribution

Endemic to New Guinea, the Grey-headed Goshawk has also been spotted on Saibai Island in Queensland, an Australian territory in the north-western Torres Strait.

Breeding

Grey-headed Goshawks construct their nests high in tall trees, using a platform of sticks and leaves to support their breeding activities.

Feeding

The diet of the Grey-headed Goshawk primarily consists of small reptiles and insects, which it adeptly hunts within its forested domain.

Conservation status

The Grey-headed Goshawk is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers that would warrant a higher level of concern.