Tachyspiza rufitorques
The Fiji Goshawk, *Tachyspiza rufitorques*, is a medium-sized, agile raptor endemic to the Fiji archipelago, a true jewel of the Pacific island avifauna. Adults exhibit striking slate-grey upperparts, a distinctive rufous collar on the hindneck, and underparts ranging from a rich rufous wash across the chest and flanks to a paler belly. Males typically measure 30-36 cm in length with a wingspan of 58-65 cm, while females are noticeably larger, reaching 35-40 cm with a wingspan of 68-75 cm, a ...
This adaptable raptor inhabits a wide range of forested and semi-open environments across the Fiji Islands, from dense primary rainforests and mature secondary growth to cultivated areas, plantations, and even suburban gardens. It typically occurs from sea level up to moderate elevations of appro...
Its diet primarily consists of small to medium-sized birds, including passerines and doves, complemented by lizards, large insects, and occasionally small mammals or frogs, all captured with its powerful talons. Foraging is typically done via perch-hunting followed by a swift dive, or agile aeria...
The Fiji Goshawk is a diurnal hunter, typically solitary or found in pairs, often perching inconspicuously within the forest canopy, scanning for prey. Its primary foraging strategy involves a 'perch-and-pounce' technique, where it drops swiftly onto unsuspecting prey, but it is also renowned for...
The Fiji Goshawk is strictly endemic to the Fiji archipelago, where it is a resident species across most of the major islands. Its distribution encompasses islands such as Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Taveuni, Kadavu, Ovalau, Gau, Koro, and numerous smaller islands within the Lomaiviti and Lau groups. ...
Least Concern
- The Fiji Goshawk is an island endemic, found only in the Fiji archipelago. - Females are significantly larger than males, a common trait in many raptor species. - Despite its wild nature, it is known to be bold and has been observed preying on domestic chickens near human settlements. - Its rem...