British Columbia Outdoor Wilderness Guide
Northern Goshawk
Accipiter gentilis
Description - This robust bird has a long narrow
tail, short rounded wings and a bold white eyebrow. The
adult is blue-grey above with a black crown with pale
underparts finely barred with grey. Young birds are brown
above and streaked below. Usually silent, the Goshawk
lets out a loud "kak-kak-kak-kak" when disturbed.
Distribution - The Northern Goshawk breeds in coniferous
forests throughout Canada, wintering in farmlands, woodland
edges and open country, south of its breeding grounds.
Biology - This species feeds chiefly on birds and
some small mammals. The nest is a large mass of sticks
lined with fresh sprigs of evergreen where 3 or 4 white
or pale blue eggs are laid. The Goshawk is fearless in
defence of it's nest and will boldly attack anyone who
ventures too close.
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