The Pied Goshawk, scientifically known as Accipiter albogularis, is a beautiful bird of prey that inhabits the dense forests of Southeast Asia and Australia. This raptor is a member of the Accipitridae family and is smaller in size compared to other birds of prey. It measures up to 36 centimeters in length and weighs around 200 grams.
The Pied Goshawk is known for its unique coloring, with distinctive black and white features. The throat and chest of the bird are white, while the back, wings, and tail are black. The legs and feet are yellow and the eyes are large, bright, and yellow-orange in color. The wingspan of the Pied Goshawk is around 68 to 78 centimeters.
These birds are known for their swift and silent flight, making them efficient hunters in the forest canopy. They feed on small mammals, reptiles, and birds by swooping down on unsuspecting prey. The females of this species are larger than the males and are more dominant in hunting.
The Pied Goshawk is known for its unique breeding behavior. Their breeding season varies depending on geographical location, but is generally between July to December. These birds prefer to build their nests in tall trees, that are often over 20 meters high above the ground, usually near rivers or water bodies. Both female and male Pied Goshawks take part in the building of the nest, which is made of twigs, bark, and other vegetation. Once the nest is ready, the female lays two to three eggs and both parents take turns to incubate the eggs. The eggs hatch after 30 to 35 days and the young chicks are dependent on their parents for food and protection until they are ready to fly and hunt for themselves.
The Pied Goshawk may be small, but their distinctive black and white coloring, swift and silent flight, and unique breeding behavior make them a fascinating bird of prey. Although these birds are not considered threatened, they may be affected by habitat loss due to deforestation and human activity. It is important to protect their natural habitat and conserve these beautiful creatures for future generations to enjoy.