Erythrotriorchis buergersi
The Chestnut-shouldered Goshawk, *Erythrotriorchis buergersi*, is a striking and enigmatic raptor endemic to the island of New Guinea. Measuring approximately 43-53 cm in length with a wingspan potentially reaching 90-110 cm, this medium-to-large accipiter-like bird boasts a robust build. Its defining field marks include prominent reddish-chestnut shoulders and flanks, contrasting with a pale, often finely barred underbody and a dark slate-grey back and head. Juveniles tend to be darker overa...
Found primarily in mature tropical lowland rainforests, sometimes venturing into adjacent disturbed or transitional forest edges. It typically inhabits elevations ranging from sea level up to approximately 1,600 meters.
Feeds primarily on birds, including medium-sized passerines, parrots, and pigeons, supplemented by small mammals and possibly reptiles. It hunts within the forest canopy and sub-canopy, using surprise attacks.
As a reclusive and poorly studied raptor, detailed behavioral insights for the Chestnut-shouldered Goshawk are scarce, though it is presumed to be largely diurnal, spending its days perching quietly within the forest canopy, surveying for prey. Its foraging strategy likely involves swift, ambush ...
The Chestnut-shouldered Goshawk is endemic to the island of New Guinea, where its distribution is fragmented and localized, primarily within the larger, intact blocks of lowland rainforest. It is found across both the Indonesian provinces of West Papua and Papua, and throughout Papua New Guinea. ...
Near Threatened
- This species is one of the most poorly known raptors in the world, with few detailed observations in the wild. - Its genus, *Erythrotriorchis*, translates to "Red Goshawk," referencing the striking reddish hues found on its shoulders and flanks. - Unlike many raptors that prefer open woodlands,...