The chestnut-shouldered goshawk is a species of bird of prey in the family Accipitridae. It is found in New Guinea.
Region
New Guinea
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland and foothill rainforests across New Guinea, including riverine and swamp forests as well as forest edges. It hunts within the interior canopy and along light gaps, logging tracks, and stream corridors. The species favors extensive tracts of undisturbed forest but can use semi-open mosaic near forest margins. It generally avoids open grasslands and high montane forests.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This elusive forest raptor is endemic to New Guinea and is seldom seen, spending much of its time within the mid- to upper canopy. It is named for the rich chestnut patches on its shoulders, a key feature for identification. It is closely related to the Australian red goshawk, sharing a similar broad-winged, forest-hunting profile.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift dashes through the canopy; occasional soaring over forest
Social Behavior
Typically encountered singly or in pairs, maintaining territories in mature forest. Presumed monogamous, nesting high in tall trees with a stick platform nest. Clutch size is likely small, with extended parental care as in other forest accipiters.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Usually quiet, but gives sharp, high-pitched whistles and kek-kek calls, especially near the nest. Vocalizations are brief and infrequent, carrying through the canopy during early morning.
Plumage
Broad-winged forest hawk with warm rufous-chestnut shoulder patches contrasting with brown upperparts and pale, finely barred underparts. Tail is long with dark bands; throat often paler with light streaking. Flight feathers show darker barring; underwing may show rufous tones near the coverts.
Diet
Preys on small to medium birds, arboreal mammals such as rodents and small marsupials, reptiles like lizards, and large insects. Hunts from concealed perches, launching ambushes along forest edges and gaps. Will also course along stream corridors and trails where prey movement is concentrated.
Preferred Environment
Feeds within dense lowland and foothill rainforest, particularly along edges, clearings, riverbanks, and logging tracks where visibility is improved. Often uses mid- to upper-canopy perches to watch for passing prey.
