The Moluccan goshawk or Halmaheran goshawk is a species of bird of prey in the family Accipitridae. This species was formerly placed in the genus Accipiter.
Region
Maluku Islands (Indonesia)
Typical Environment
Primarily found on Halmahera and adjacent islands in the North Maluku group, inhabiting primary and mature secondary lowland and hill forests. It uses forest interiors, edges, riverine corridors, and occasionally overgrown plantations and clearings. The species tends to perch within the mid to upper canopy, launching short, fast pursuits through foliage. It tolerates some habitat modification but is most frequent in intact forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Halmaheran goshawk, it is a forest raptor endemic to the northern Moluccas of Indonesia and was formerly lumped within the variable goshawk complex. It is a secretive ambush hunter that is more often heard than seen inside dense lowland forest. As a mid-sized Accipiter, it helps control populations of small birds, reptiles, and large insects.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides; highly agile between trees
Social Behavior
Typically encountered alone or in pairs during the breeding season. Builds a stick nest high in a forest tree, with a small clutch typically of 2–3 eggs. Courtship displays include rapid chases through the canopy and vocal duets.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Usually quiet, but gives sharp, rapid kek-kek-kek or ki-ki-ki calls when excited or during territory defense. Calls carry through the forest and are often the first sign of its presence.
