Crested Goshawk look-alikes
Accipiter trivirgatus
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Crested Goshawk. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Besra
Accipiter virgatus
Key differences
The Besra is generally smaller and lacks the prominent streaked throat and broad rufous barring on the underparts of the Crested Goshawk. The Besra's crest is also less developed or absent. In flight, the Besra has a more slender appearance.
Shikra
Accipiter badius
Key differences
The Shikra is smaller, lacks a crest, and has finer, more rufous barring on the underparts (especially males). Its flight is often more buoyant. The Shikra also has a distinctive grey head and rufous cheeks, which the Crested Goshawk lacks.
Eurasian Sparrowhawk
Accipiter nisus
Key differences
The Eurasian Sparrowhawk (where ranges overlap) is generally smaller, lacks a crest, and adult males have slate-grey upperparts and rufous barring on the underparts. Females are browner above and more barred below. The Crested Goshawk's streaked throat and broader barring are key distinctions.
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