190 
SUBSPECIES. The type form, the Eastern Goshawk Astur atricapiUus atricapiUus , is 
the common subspecies over the greatest part of its range. Some migrants into southern 
British Columbia and southward are considerably darker, more overwashed with buffy 
in the juvenile, and blacker on back and breast when adult, and have been separated as 
the Western Goshawk Astur atricapiUus striatulus. We know very little of the geographic 
distribution of this form, but presume that it breeds somewhere on the northwest coast. 
The fine vermiculation of the underparts usually given as the distinctive character of this 
race is but an indication of full maturity. 
The American representative of the Old World Goshawk or “Goose 
Hawk”, which seems to have been the original name, was the only Short- 
winged Hawk regularly used in ancient falconry. It was flown at hares, 
partridges, and such ground-game, which its long tail and short wings 
allowed it to follow through rapid turnings and twistings, whereas its size 
allowed it to kill quite large game. It was not, however, regarded as a 
thoroughly sportsmanlike bird as it lacked the spirit and energy of the 
Long-winged Falcons and its use lacked the excitement and interest aroused 
by the use of “Noble Hawks.” 
Figure 212 
Goshawk (juvenile); scale, 
Appearance in Sight. 
Economic Statics. Fortunately this bird is only an irregular winter 
visitor to our most thickly settled sections. Otherwise it would be a serious 
menace to the poultryman. Of 20 stomachs examined, 9 contained poultry 
or game; 2, other birds; 10, mammals; 3, insects; and 1, a centipede. 
Of the 10 mammals, 3 were rabbits and 1 a grey squirrel, both of which 
can be regarded as useful. This gives a total of 15 harmful food items 
against 9 useful and 1 neutral. There can be no question as to the harmful 
status of this species. Its size gives it ample power to take pullets and 
even well-grown hens, and such large game as Ruffed Grouse is its favourite 
food. Though the real home of the Goshawks is in the more northern 
forests, once they establish themselves near a farmyard they are likely 
to visit it daily. They dash suddenly over or around a building into the 
middle of the poultry flock, seize their victim, and are off with it before the 
owner can protect his property. 
