Gray Goshawk

1. Two forms: grey with barred underparts or completely white.

2. Bright red eyes and yellow legs.

3. Females are much larger than males.

Grey Goshawks are opportunistic hunters, feeding on a variety of prey including birds, mammals (such as rabbits and possums), reptiles, and insects. Females, being larger, can take down bigger prey than males. These birds hunt either by stealth from a concealed perch or by actively chasing prey through the forest. They form permanent pairs and breed in mature forests, building large stick nests high in trees, usually near water. Breeding occurs from July to December in the south, and the same nest may be used for several years. Females handle most incubation and feeding, while males provide food for the family. The grey and white morphs interbreed freely, and offspring can be either colour. In Tasmania, the white morph is listed as endangered due to habitat loss

Grey Goshawks live in tall, wet forests, especially near watercourses, but can also be found in woodlands, wooded farmland, and sometimes urban fringes. In Tasmania, the white morph is widespread, while both colour forms occur on mainland Australia. They are most often seen perched quietly in the canopy or flying directly through the trees, particularly in the early morning.