Species BirdsNorthern Goshawk

Northern Goshawk

Accipiter gentilis

UncommonBird
Illustration of Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis)
Safety note: Nesting Goshawks will vigorously dive-bomb intruders — give nests wide berth.

The Northern Goshawk is the largest and most powerful accipiter in North America, an imposing hunter of mature forests capable of pursuing prey as large as grouse and hares. Its bold white supercilium and barred gray underparts make the adult unmistakable. It is famously aggressive in defense of its nest, and more than a few foresters have needed stitches after approaching too close.

Habitat
Mature and old-growth coniferous and mixed forests
Diet
Hares, squirrels, grouse, and other birds
How common
Uncommon

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