The Slaty-mantled Goshawk is a bird of prey that belongs to the Accipitridae family, which includes eagles, hawks, and vultures. It is also known by its scientific name, Accipiter luteoschistaceus, and is found in the tropical and subtropical forests of Southeast Asia.
The Slaty-mantled Goshawk is a medium-sized bird, measuring between 35 to 40 centimeters in length, and weighing around 400 to 600 grams. Females are slightly larger than males. Its body is predominantly gray, with a slate-colored head and mantle. The wings and tail are brownish-black, and the underparts are white with fine gray bars.
Like all birds of prey, the Slaty-mantled Goshawk is a carnivore, feeding on a variety of prey such as lizards, snakes, rodents, and even other birds. It hunts by using its keen eyesight and agility to pursue and catch its prey in flight. The bird is also known to use surprise tactics while hunting, swiftly flying through the dense forest to catch prey off guard.
The Slaty-mantled Goshawk is a solitary bird that prefers to inhabit the dense, towering canopies of the tropical forests where it lives. It is an elusive bird that can be challenging to spot in the wild. Despite this, its numbers are believed to be stable, and it is not currently considered to be a threatened species.
In terms of breeding, the Slaty-mantled Goshawk is monogamous, with breeding pairs nesting in the upper canopy of the forest. The nests are usually constructed out of sticks and lined with smaller twigs and leaves. The female lays a clutch of two to three eggs, which are incubated for around 35 days. The chicks are cared for by both parents and are typically fully fledged after around 35-45 days.
Overall, the Slaty-mantled Goshawk is a fascinating bird that represents one of the many mysterious and awe-inspiring species that call the tropical forests of Southeast Asia their home. Its agile hunting techniques and elusive nature make it a popular bird to observe and study for bird enthusiasts and ornithologists alike.