Crested Goshawk
IUCN
LC
Basic Information
Scientific classification
- name：Crested Goshawk
- Scientific Name：Accipiter trivirgatus
- Outline：Raptor
- Family：Accipitridae Accipiter
Vital signs
- length：41–46 cm (female larger); wingspan ~75–88 cm
- Weight：Males 220–350 g; females 355–620 g
- lifetime：c. 8–12 years (wild); longer under care
Feature
Forest ambush raptor; short broad wings + long tail; distinct crest; sexual dimorphism; urban‑adaptable.
Distribution and Habitat
Evergreen/secondary forests, foothills and large urban greens across S & SE Asia to S China & Taiwan.
Appearance
Dark/grey‑brown above; densely barred underparts; whitish streaked throat; yellow‑orange iris; yellow legs; crest.
Details
Crested Goshawk (Accipiter trivirgatus) is a medium forest raptor across tropical–subtropical Asia, with an erectable crest, short broad wings and a long tail for agile woodland flight. IUCN: Least Concern (LC).
Ecology & Behaviour
Ambush predator of birds, squirrels, rodents and lizards; now common in urban parks/campuses for nesting. Females larger. Breeding in spring–summer; stick nests in tall trees.
Identification
Dark to grey‑brown above; densely barred underparts; whitish throat with fine streaks; yellow–orange iris; yellow legs; distinct crest. Heavier‑headed and bolder‑barred than sparrowhawks; smaller than Northern Goshawk.
Range & Habitat
From the Indian Subcontinent through Indochina and the Malay Archipelago to the Philippines, Indonesia and S China incl. Taiwan. Mostly resident in evergreen/secondary forests, foothills and large urban green spaces.
FAQ
Q1. Key differences from sparrowhawks? Obvious crest, heavier head, denser barring.
Q2. Urban breeder? Yes—nests in tall trees in parks/campuses.
Q3. Diet? Small–medium birds/mammals plus lizards and large insects.
Q4. Dangerous to people? Generally wary; may swoop near nests—keep distance.
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