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Animal Profile IUCN: LC

Crested Goshawk

Accipiter trivirgatus

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 & BehaviourAmbush predator of birds, squirrels, rodents and lizards; now co

Raptor 591 views
Crested Goshawk
Scientific Name Accipiter trivirgatus
Length 41–46 cm (female larger); wingspan ~75–88 cm
Weight Males 220–350 g; females 355–620 g
Lifespan c. 8–12 years (wild); longer under care
IUCN Status LC
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Table of Contents

    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.

    At a glance

    Profile Details

    Key characteristics, appearance, and habitat information.

    Traits & Behavior

    Forest ambush raptor; short broad wings + long tail; distinct crest; sexual dimorphism; urban‑adaptable.

    Appearance

    Dark/grey‑brown above; densely barred underparts; whitish streaked throat; yellow‑orange iris; yellow legs; crest.

    Distribution & Habitat

    Evergreen/secondary forests, foothills and large urban greens across S & SE Asia to S China & Taiwan.
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    Visual guide

    Browse available images of this species.

    Quick answers

    Crested Goshawk FAQs

    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.