The goshawk is a rare bird of prey similar to the sparrowhawk but much larger, known as the "phantom of the forest" for its ability to fly through trees at high speeds.

How did the goshawk population in the UK change over time?

The goshawk was once persecuted in the UK in the late 19th century, leading to a decline in its population. However, there was a population recovery in the late 1960s following deliberate releases.

Home / Environment / Rare Goshawk Spotted Breeding in Leicestershire After Decades of Absence

Rare Goshawk Spotted Breeding in Leicestershire After Decades of Absence

Q: Where has the goshawk been spotted breeding?

The goshawk has been spotted breeding in Leicestershire, England for the first time in over a century, according to local bird recorder Carl Baggot.

11 Sep

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Summary

Goshawk, a protected bird, spotted breeding in Leicestershire for the first time
Goshawks were persecuted in the UK in the late 19th century but made a comeback in the 1960s
Goshawks are known as the "phantom of the forest" and can fly through trees at up to 40 km/h

Rare Goshawk Spotted Breeding in Leicestershire After Decades of Absence

In a significant conservation milestone, a rare goshawk has been spotted breeding in Leicestershire, England for the first time in over a century. The goshawk, a protected bird of prey similar to the sparrowhawk but much larger, was once persecuted in the UK, leading to a decline in its population. However, a recovery effort in the late 1960s has allowed the species to gradually reestablish itself in the region.

According to Leicestershire and Rutland bird recorder Carl Baggot, this is the first documented record of the goshawk breeding in the area, although they may have done so in the distant past. Baggot expressed his excitement, saying, "In all honesty I let out an expletive under my breath, so I guess I was very excited."

The goshawk, known as the "phantom of the forest," is a formidable predator capable of flying through trees at speeds of up to 40 km/h (24 mph) as it hunts birds and small mammals. Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust's senior reserves officer, Andy Neilson, described the return of the goshawk as "absolutely brilliant" and "outstanding."

Baggot has been monitoring the goshawks at four private woodlands since 2021, using passive sound recorders. He has identified a breeding pair, with the male being a second-year bird and the female a third-year or older. The goshawk's population is increasing nationally, and as long as they are not persecuted and have access to suitable habitats, they are expected to continue expanding their range.

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