The grey goshawk is a strongly built, medium-sized bird of prey in the family Accipitridae that is found in eastern and northern Australia. The white morph of this species is known as the white goshawk. This species was formerly placed in the genus Accipiter.
Region
Eastern and Northern Australia and Tasmania
Typical Environment
Found from coastal and subcoastal eastern Australia through the Top End and across Tasmania. It occupies a range of wooded habitats including rainforests, wet and dry sclerophyll forests, riparian corridors, mangroves, and tall woodland. It often hunts along forest edges and clearings but requires trees for nesting and cover. In Tasmania, the white morph is prominent and uses similar habitats. Occasional use of semi-rural and farmland mosaics occurs where remnant tree cover persists.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This species occurs in two striking color morphs: a slate-grey form and a pure white form known as the white goshawk, which is especially common in Tasmania. It is a stealthy, powerful forest hunter that ambushes prey from cover. Females are notably larger than males, a common trait in accipiters. Pairs can be very defensive around nests during the breeding season.
White morph
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides; agile forest flier
Social Behavior
Typically forms long-term monogamous pairs that hold territories year-round. Nests are platform structures placed high in tall trees, often reused with refurbishment. Clutches are usually 2–3 eggs; the female incubates while the male supplies prey. Both adults aggressively defend the nest from intruders.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Most vocal near the nest, giving sharp, repeated kek-kek or high-pitched screams. Contact calls between mates are softer, piping whistles. Vocal activity increases during courtship and territorial displays.
