Goshawk
Accipiter gentilis (Linnaeus)

Identification: It looks like a heavy Shikra in general appearance measuring about 50-60 cm. in length. The upper part of the body is dark gray. The head has a dark black cap with a narrow white strip above the eye.It has a long tail and short, rounded wings. The bill is short, curved and black and the feet and cere are yellow in colour.

Habitat: It is a forest dweller and rarely comes out in the open. It is a very efficient killer and attacks its victims, which include ducks, herons and hares, with great skill and precision. Falconers rank them among some of the best hunting birds.

Distribution: It migrates to Pakistan in winter.

Breeding: It breeds between March and April and lays 1-5 eggs in a clutch.

Food: It feeds on small mammals and birds upto the size of pheasants.

Status: Rare