Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis)

Goshawk

UK History

Reported to have become extinct 100 years ago following persistent persecution. Sporadic breeding started about 70 years ago thought to be as a result of deliberate unofficial releases and escaped falconer's birds.

UK Status

The first breeding record (after extinct 1890s) was 1938 in Southern England. There are now between 300 - 400 breeding pairs. Breeds in conifer woods and forests - spruce, pine and larch.

Global Status

Inhabit N. America, Europe, N. Asia, Turkey, Iran, Tibet, China and Japan. Goshawks are not considered to be globally threatened, although they have been heavily persecuted and have suffered from loss of habitat due to deforestation.

They are widespread across most of Europe with a breeding population of more than 160,000 pairs with a stronghold in Russia.

Biology

Feeds on other birds and mammals. A large female can kill a fuuly grown pheasant although smaller prey is more typical. They nest in April and May in large trees, about 20m above the ground. The female lays 3-4 eggs, which she incubates for 35-38 days. The chicks fledge after 34-41 days. Goshawks tend to mate for life. Age 2 first breeding . Average life span 7 years.

Issues with humans

They hunt small and medium-sized birds and mammals including grouse, rabbits and hares. Predation of gamebirds, most notably red grouse and pheasants has led to their frequent persecution by gamekeepers.

Their indiscriminate prey base which includes red squirrels, other birds of prey and owls makes them unpopular with some people.

Future Outlook

A further slow expansion of their range is expected. Goshawks are still persecuted and their nests are frequently robbed.

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