Grey goshawk

The grey goshawk, which may also be referred to as the white goshawk when exhibiting its white morph, is a medium-sized bird of prey belonging to the Accipitridae family. In its grey form, this raptor features a pale grey head and back, dark wingtips, a grey-barred breast and tail, and white underparts. Notably, it is the largest of the Accipiter species found on mainland Australia, with females being significantly larger than males.

These birds inhabit the coastal regions of northern, eastern, and south-eastern Australia, including Tasmania. Occasionally, they are also sighted in Western Australia. They prefer residing in forests, tall woodlands, and treed areas near water.

When it comes to hunting, grey goshawks are highly adaptable. They primarily prey on birds but also include mammals, reptiles, and insects in their diet. Typically, they hunt stealthily but are capable of chasing down their prey when necessary.

Grey and white goshawks form lifelong breeding pairs, usually breeding from July to December. They choose tall trees for their nests. The female predominantly incubates the eggs and feeds the chicks, while the male handles most of the hunting to provide food for the family.

In terms of conservation, the grey goshawk is listed as threatened under the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 in Victoria, Australia. It is also considered vulnerable according to the 2007 advisory list of threatened vertebrate fauna in Victoria.