Goshawk: Woodland Raptor Welfare Science

Key Welfare Facts

Goshawks were extinct in Britain by 1900 but have recolonised through escapes from falconry and deliberate releases.
They require extensive mature woodland providing cover for nesting and aerial pursuit of prey species.
Illegal persecution at pheasant shoots continues to be a significant welfare threat to recovering populations.
Breeding welfare requires undisturbed forest nest sites; disturbance causes nest desertion and chick mortality.
Territory defence involves spectacular aerial display and direct physical confrontation with intruders.
Population expansion is currently limited by persecution pressure and availability of large continuous woodland blocks.

Welfare Assessment

Goshawk welfare is limited by ongoing illegal persecution and habitat availability. Supporting enforcement of bird of prey protection laws and woodland creation that provides connected forest habitat addresses both primary welfare threats.

What You Can Do

Report any suspected raptor persecution to the RSPB and police wildlife crime unit
Support raptor persecution intelligence schemes that gather evidence for prosecutions
Donate to woodland creation projects that provide connected large-scale forest for nesting raptors
Follow guidance on raptor disturbance distances when observing or visiting woodland during breeding season