By Lynn Bowen
Beacon Columnist

posted Dec 2, 2012 - 1:51:41pm

The Northern goshawk is a powerful raptor that lives in forests in Eurasia, Canada, Alaska, and the western and northern U.S.

The female is 21 inches tall, has a 41-inch wingspan, and weighs about 2 pounds. The male is smaller at about 19 inches tall, has a 36-inch wingspan, and weighs just over 1 pound. Feathers and hollow bones are light!

In the photo accompanying this column, it is obvious that the goshawk is full grown, yet is still a juvenile. This is evident because of his brown plumage with speckled underside and yellow "eyebrows" over yellow eyes. When mature, the adult goshawk is medium gray with a pale gray underside and white streaks over his eyes, and his eyes are red.

A Northern goshawk builds a large bowl nest made of sticks and twigs in a large tree. The female lays two to five eggs, and incubates them for 35 days. The male provides the food for his mate, and for the young once they hatch. The young fledge at 5 weeks and are independent at 11 weeks.

Bears and lynxes are goshawks' main predators, and will attack the birds while they are nesting. These hawks are extremely defensive and will defend their nest from wolves, bears or people. Admire these birds from afar only!

A Northern goshawk perches silently, waiting and watching for food, then descends upon his prey by maneuvering through forest vegetation or willingly crashing into it. He has the reputation of being a great hunter, relentlessly chasing squirrels, hares, rabbits or birds for an hour if necessary. What strength and stamina!

The word "goshawk" comes from the Old English, and means goose/hawk. The goshawk has the attitude and physique of a warrior, and it is easy to understand that he is prized for his fearless demeanor!

— Bowen lives in DeLand. Send email to her at lynnindeland@gmail.com.

— info@beacononlinenews.com

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