American goshawk
Accipiter atricapillus
The American goshawk (Astur atricapillus) is a species of raptor in the family Accipitridae.
About the American goshawk
The American goshawk (Astur atricapillus) is a species of raptor in the family Accipitridae. It was first described by Alexander Wilson in 1812. The American goshawk was previously considered conspecific with the Eurasian goshawk but was assigned to a separate species in 2023 based on differences in morphology, vocalizations, and genetic divergence. It was formerly placed in the genus Accipiter. It is mainly resident, but birds from colder regions migrate south for the winter. In North America, migratory goshawks are often seen migrating south along mountain ridge tops at nearly any time of the fall depending on latitude.
Fun Facts About American goshawk
- The American goshawk was previously considered conspecific with the Eurasian goshawk but was assigned to a separate species in 2023 based on differences in morphology, vocalizations, and genetic divergence.
- It was first described by Alexander Wilson in 1812.
- In North America, migratory goshawks are often seen migrating south along mountain ridge tops at nearly any time of the fall depending on latitude.
Conservation Status
The American goshawk is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. This species is currently stable and not at significant risk of population decline.
Taxonomy & Classification
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Accipiter |
| Species | Accipiter atricapillus |
Range & Habitat
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Other species in the Accipitridae family: