Uncommon, bulky, forest-dwelling hawk. Adults are distinctive if seen well: overall gray, paler below, blackish crown and cheek, white eyebrow, and red eye. Immature very similar to Eurasian Sparrowhawk and Cooper's Hawk, but larger and broader-winged with a more prominent white eyebrow, heavier streaking below (Eurasian Sparrowhawk barred below), and typically streaked undertail coverts. In most suburban areas, Cooper's and Sparrowhawk are more likely; goshawk typically requires extensive mature forest. Very aggressive around nest. Feeds on large prey such as hares and grouse.
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