The variable goshawk is a bird of prey native to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. It was recently elevated to species status, and was previously lumped together with the grey goshawk. This species was formerly placed in the genus Accipiter.
Region
New Guinea and Southwest Pacific
Typical Environment
Occurs across New Guinea, the Aru and Maluku Islands of Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and east to the Bismarck Archipelago and Solomon Islands. Prefers lowland and hill rainforests, forest edges, riverine and mangrove forests, and wooded plantations. Often uses secondary growth, gardens, and village edges where prey is abundant. It is generally absent from treeless open country. Shows tolerance of fragmented habitats provided sufficient cover for ambush hunting.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The variable goshawk is a highly polymorphic raptor, ranging from pure white to dark grey-brown morphs, often with bold barring on the underparts. It was recently split from the grey goshawk (Accipiter novaehollandiae) and comprises numerous island subspecies across New Guinea and the southwest Pacific. Adaptable and stealthy, it thrives in both primary forest and human-modified landscapes.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats followed by brief glides
Social Behavior
Typically hunts alone and maintains territories in forested landscapes. Pairs are seasonally monogamous and build stick nests high in trees, often near forest edges. Clutches are small, and both adults defend the nest vigorously; the female undertakes most incubation while the male provides prey.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include sharp, high-pitched kek-kek-kek alarm calls and ringing squeals, especially near the nest. Also gives repeated whistled notes and chatter during territorial or courtship displays.
Plumage
Highly variable: morphs range from pure white to dark slate-brown, often with fine to heavy barring on underparts and tail. Upperparts typically grey to brown; juveniles show streaked or barred underparts and browner tones. Tail usually shows multiple dark bands; sexes similar in plumage, females larger.
Diet
An opportunistic predator of small to medium birds, rodents, bats, and lizards; will also take large insects. Hunts by perch-and-wait, launching rapid ambushes through cover. Capable of swift, twisting pursuit in dense vegetation and may occasionally take poultry around settlements.
Preferred Environment
Usually forages along forest edges, clearings, riparian corridors, and village gardens adjacent to woodland. Frequently uses canopy and midstory perches that overlook open patches or trails where prey passes.
