The white morphs of this species and the closely related variable goshawk are the only birds of prey in the world to be entirely white.
WA: Endangered; TAS: Endangered; NT: Endangered
Indigenous: New Holland Goshawk, Grey-Backed Goshawk, White Goshawk, White Hawk
At a glance
FamilyHawks, Eagles, and Kites
SizeLarge
RarityCommon
HabitatTypically occurs in wet forested areas, including dense rainforest.
Best timeReported across most months in New South Wales, with no narrow seasonal peak.
Sounds
Sound sampleRecorded by ron_willemsen
Range map
Range map
200approx hotspots
9640approx records
5states
Low confidenceMediumHigh confidence
Aggregated occurance data is sourced from 14 different actively-updating datasets including eBird Australia, iNaturalist Australia, BirdLife Australia, and multiple state-based bird surveys through Atlas of Living Australia.
Species notes
Overview
Both morphs have yellow legs, red eyes. Note broader wings than Brown Goshawk.
Behavior
Typically occurs in wet forested areas, including dense rainforest.
Gallery
Regional timing
New South Wales
Tasmania
Victoria
Queensland
Australian Capital Territory
Western Australia
Northern Territory
South Australia
Commonly confused with
Black-breasted KiteHamirostra melanosternonA large dark raptor. In flight it shows a very short stubby tail, and has large pale wing panels. Holds wings up high in a slight V-shape while soaring.→Spotted HarrierCircus assimilisOften perches on fence-posts. Occurs in drier habitats than Swamp Harrier.→Little EagleHieraaetus morphnoidesBoth light and dark morphs occur in varying frequencies throughout its extensive range. In flight note diagnostic black wingtips and tail barring. Can raise feathers on the back of the head to form a small black crest. Usually solitary.→