Gentile hawk
Goshawk / Duvhök / Eurasian Goshawk
Gentile hawk
Illustration: Gentile hawk
- Plumage: Slate-grey to dark brownish-grey upperparts; off-white underparts densely pattern with fine horizontal charcoal-grey barring. - Beak: Sharp, heavily hooked dark slate bill with a contrasting greenish-yellow cere. - Body build: Medium-large, powerful forest raptor with short rounded broad wings and a long broad tail designed for extreme flight agility. - Distinctive details: Striking bright yellow to deep orange-red irises, broad white eyebrow stripe (supercilium) above a dark eye patch.
This species is an important part of the ecosystems in Västerbotten.
Facts & Characteristics
- Scientific Name: Accipiter gentilis
- Category / Order: Vögel (Aves)
- Nature, Taiga & Waters of Västerbotten: Nature, Taiga & Waters of Västerbotten
- Native to Northern Sweden: Native to Northern Sweden
Questions & Answers (FAQ)
Which habitats does the Northern goshawk prefer in the Scandinavian Taiga?
It relies on mature, multi-layered coniferous and mixed forests for nesting and hunting, making it an indicator species for old-growth woodland and key habitats.
How does modern forestry impact its populations?
Clear-cutting and the removal of mature stands reduce suitable nesting sites and prey density, which negatively affects goshawk numbers.