One of Australia’s most striking birds of prey — a feathered ghost in the forest. With its pure white or soft grey plumage, it glides through the trees almost silently, making it one of nature’s stealthiest hunters. Some grey goshawks are completely snowy white, while others wear a lovely pale grey suit. Either way, they look absolutely stunning against the deep greens of the Australian bush.

One of the coolest things about grey goshawks is their versatility as hunters. They feed on birds, mammals, reptiles, and even large insects, depending on what’s available. Their hunting style is all about stealth and surprise: they perch quietly, waiting for the perfect moment to swoop down at lightning speed. Their light coloration even helps them blend into the bright sky when seen from below, giving them the edge they need to catch their prey off guard. Plus, their strong talons and hooked beaks make short work of whatever they capture — fast, efficient, and impressive.

What’s even more fascinating is that grey goshawks have a “double life” depending on where they live. In some parts of Australia, they nest in dense rainforests, while in others they prefer open woodlands or even farmland fringes. They are fiercely territorial during breeding season, and both males and females are involved in raising the chicks. The parents are extremely protective, often chasing off much bigger birds that come too close to their nest. A grey goshawks family means business when it comes to protecting their young!

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Australia

10,000

LC

2024