Tachyspiza poliocephala
The Grey-headed Goshawk, *Tachyspiza poliocephala*, is a striking raptor of the Accipitridae family, characterized by its sleek, pigeon-grey head and upperparts that sharply contrast with its pristine white underparts. This medium-sized hawk measures approximately 30-38 cm (12-15 in) in length, with a wingspan of 60-70 cm (24-28 in) and weighing around 180-250 g (6.3-8.8 oz), exhibiting slight sexual dimorphism where females are marginally larger than males. Distinctive field marks include it...
This goshawk primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical moist lowland forests, ranging into secondary growth and forest edges, often found near rivers or clearings, from sea level up to moderate elevations around 1,500 meters.
Their diet primarily consists of small birds, lizards, and large insects, often captured in flight or snatched from foliage or the ground, occasionally supplemented by small mammals.
Grey-headed Goshawks are diurnal predators, typically seen perching quietly and secretively within the mid to upper canopy, using a 'sit-and-wait' strategy to ambush prey. Their foraging strategy involves short, powerful flights from a hidden perch to snatch unsuspecting prey, demonstrating remar...
The Grey-headed Goshawk has a relatively widespread but localized distribution across the Australasian realm, primarily found on the island of New Guinea and its satellite islands. Its breeding range extends throughout the main island of New Guinea, encompassing both Indonesian Papua and Papua Ne...
Least Concern
- The Grey-headed Goshawk was recently reclassified from the genus *Accipiter* to *Tachyspiza* following genetic studies, highlighting its unique evolutionary path among true hawks. - Its striking red eyes are a prominent feature, contrasting sharply with its grey head, and are believed to aid in...