Red Goshawk
Erythrotriorchis radiatus
Conservation Status
Queensland State: Endangered
Australian Government: Endangered
Species overview
The red goshawk is solitary by nature and only lives in Australia (endemic) where its historical range primarily covered the tropical and subtropical regions of eastern and northern Australia. This threatened species was once widespread, however, its population has declined significantly in recent decades with the species now believed extinct from 34% of its breeding range, and declining across another ~30% of its breeding range (MacColl et al. 2023). Red goshawk pairs remain within the nesting territory all year, but travel hundreds of kilometres as juveniles from their place of birth.
Areas in which red goshawks have been historically sighted in the region include:
- Charlton
- Mackay
- Finch Hatton
Description
The red goshawk is a large, swift and powerful red-brown hawk, growing to a length of 45-60 cm, with a wingspan of 100-135 cm. It is one of the most sexually dimorphic raptors in the world as the females weigh nearly twice that of males. The red goshawk can be further distinguished from other similar raptors by its broad ‘six fingered’ wings that are held at slightly angled planes when soaring.
They are typically found in habitats that support high bird numbers that constitute the majority of their prey but they may also feed on mammals, reptiles, and large insects. The red goshawk is a good indicator of highly productive land and biodiversity. If it’s good enough for red goshawks, it’s good enough for a whole range of other species that rely on old growth trees for habitat and food.
Conservation concerns
The red goshawk has the unfortunate title of Australia’s rarest (most threatened) bird of prey. Known threats include heavy grazing, frequent burning, or degradation of freshwater wetlands and riparian areas, which reduce the availability of prey for the red goshawk.
Habitat destruction and fragmentation for agricultural or industrial purposes remains the most prevalent threat, with fragmentation of habitat a threat as the birds are scarce where lowland forests have been cleared for agriculture. Nests are particularly vulnerable as they are usually found in the tallest trees that are valuable for timber, or are exposed to storm damage and other disturbance.
What can I do?
- Maintain large trees for nesting habitat
- Retain or revegetate riparian habitat
- Manage weeds in the riparian zone, particularly rubber vine
- Maintain or enhance existing habitat through revegetation and appropriate fire
Feature Photo credit Queensland Government