GOSHAWK
(accipiter
gentilis)
Of the two British species of true Hawk, the Goshawk is by
far the largest, being up to 6 times heavier than the
Sparrowhawk. It is predominantly a woodland bird and has
adapted to living in conifer plantations.
The Gos is completely fearless and will take quarry on the
ground or in the air. It is capable of remarkable speeds
over distances of up to 500m with deep, rapid beats of its
comparatively short, broad wings. Prey ranges from
songbirds to hares. Victims are grasped with large,
powerful feet and held with increasing pressure, driving in
the long, sharp talons until all movement ceases.
FACT
FILE:
LENGTH:
48 - 62cms (18- 25ins)
WINGSPAN:
135 - I 65cms (53 - 65ins)WEIGHT:
0.62 - 2.05kg (1Ib 6oz - 41bs 8oz)HABITAT:
Woodland (both deciduous and coniferous) with open glades
and breaks for hunting. Nests in trees, sometimes
refurbishing existing nests but, in conifer plantations,
always building a new one.CONSERVATION
STATUS:
Est. 300 pairs.