The Fiji goshawk is a species of bird of prey in the family Accipitridae. It was once considered to be the same species (conspecific) as the brown goshawk of Australia and New Caledonia. It is endemic to Fiji, where it occurs on the larger islands of Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Taveuni, Kadavu, Gau and Ovalau. It occupies a range of wooded habitats in Fiji, from natural rainforest to coconut plantations and urban gardens and parks.
Region
South Pacific (Fiji archipelago)
Typical Environment
Occurs on the larger Fijian islands including Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Taveuni, Kadavu, Gau, and Ovalau. It uses a wide range of wooded habitats from primary and secondary rainforest to coastal woodland and mangroves. The species readily occupies human-altered areas such as coconut plantations, agricultural mosaics, and suburban gardens and parks. It hunts along forest edges, clearings, and roadside corridors where prey is abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Fiji goshawk is a forest accipiter that has adapted well to modified landscapes, often hunting in coconut groves, plantations, and even urban parks. Long treated as conspecific with the brown goshawk, it is now recognized as a distinct species confined to Fiji. It is known for bold, fearless behavior around people and for vigorously defending its nest.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift dashes through cover; occasional soaring
Social Behavior
Typically encountered singly or in territorial pairs. Breeding pairs are monogamous and nest high in trees, building a stick platform. Clutches are small, and both adults share incubation and chick-rearing duties. They defend nest sites aggressively against intruders.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives sharp, yapping kek-kek-kek alarm calls, especially near the nest. Also uses shorter whistles and chittering notes during pair communication.
