Lophospiza trivirgata
The Crested Goshawk, *Lophospiza trivirgata*, is a medium-sized and robust accipiter that commands attention with its distinctive appearance and agile hunting prowess within the dense forests of Asia. Adults typically display dark grey upperparts, a prominent blackish crest, and a striking facial pattern with a dark eye stripe and pale supercilium. Their underparts are pale, heavily streaked and barred with rufous-brown, particularly on the breast and flanks, while the tail is distinctly barr...
This goshawk primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, including lowland and hill forests. It can also be found in plantations and cultivated areas with sufficient tall trees, typically at low to mid-elevations up to 2000 meters.
Its diet primarily consists of small to medium-sized birds, such as bulbuls, doves, and mynas, along with small mammals like squirrels and bats. It also preys on lizards and large insects, ambushing prey from a hidden perch.
The Crested Goshawk is a diurnal raptor, spending much of its day perched secretively within the forest canopy, observing its surroundings. It employs a stealthy hunting strategy, often ambushing unsuspecting prey from a hidden perch with a rapid, powerful flight through dense vegetation. During ...
The Crested Goshawk boasts a wide distribution across the Oriental biogeographic realm, primarily resident throughout its range. Its breeding territory spans the Indian subcontinent, including India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bhutan, extending eastward across Southeast Asia. This includes countries s...
Least Concern
- The scientific name *trivirgata* translates to 'three-striped', referencing the distinct banding on its tail. - Its prominent crest, a key identification feature, is often only raised when the bird is excited, alarmed, or displaying. - Crested Goshawks are incredibly agile fliers, capable of ma...