Habitat:
Dense temperate and boreal forests

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Northern Goshawk is an elegant and powerful raptor, known for its slender silhouette and rapid, erratic flight through dense forests. This medium-sized hawk primarily inhabits temperate forests in Europe, Asia, and North America, where it hunts birds, primarily wood pigeons, doves, and sometimes smaller prey. The Northern Goshawk is an exceptional hunter, using its speed and precise aerial maneuvers to catch its prey. Despite its remarkable flying skills, the Northern Goshawk is discreet and often difficult to spot, preferring to blend into its forest environment. While not currently threatened, habitat loss and human disturbance pose risks to its population.

Recommended lens:
300 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
Photograph from a distance using a telephoto lens to avoid disturbing the Eurasian goshawk, especially during its fast flights or when it is perched. Favor golden hours (morning and late afternoon), when the light is soft and the bird is often more active. Capture its fast and acrobatic flight: The Eurasian goshawk is agile and fast, so be ready to track its flight with a high-performance autofocus. Be patient: Wait for it to land or hunt, but do not try to approach too closely to avoid disturbing it. The Eurasian goshawk is a species of minor concern, but it is essential to respect its space, especially during the breeding and hunting periods. Make sure to follow local conservation guidelines and avoid excessive disturbance of this bird.