North Eiðmorallian Goshawk
The North Eiðmorallian Goshawk (Accipiter borealis eiðmorallensis) (Sjóðaveric: Severniyg tetervyhøk) is a species of medium to large bird of prey in the family of the true hawks. Their habitats are large and span across the mild climates of Kélaria and the Lucrétian half-continent, to the harsh northern climates of the northern Severmarkish Eiðmorall Ring. They are the only member of the their family to have adapted both to the cold northern climates as well as the warm and humid regions of the Lucrétias. The North Eiðmorallian Goshawk was first scientifically described by Gustav Eduvardsen Thyrkin tal Fryånahalm in 207 BVK in his book Systems of natural order and classification of nature's dominion.
Appearance and anatomy:
The North Eiðmorallian Goshawk is a medium to large sized, strong bird of prey which weighs between 0.55-1.8kg and has sturdy wings, as well as a proportionally short tail. They are relatively large hawks, with a height of up to 79cm and a wingspan of up to 1.4m. Adult male birds have a greyish-white, sometimes darker top side and a lighter underside with dense crosswatering. Young birds usually have a brown plumage, sometimes seen with a beige or lighter underside. The iris of the eyes tends to darken with age, in adult specimen often resulting in a dark orange or even red colour.Voice:
North Eiðmorallian Goshawks usually vocalise during courtship periods and fights during the nesting season. Vocalisations vary from eagle-like, high-pitched piping notes to repeated chattering. Observers describe the sound of a female goshawk during nesting season as "unlike any other" and unmistakable.Similar species:
Especially at a young age, North Eiðmorallian Goshawks may be confused with Nygripennis mereri or Accipiter leshkarae due to the juveniles' plumage. However, the North Eiðmorallian Goshawk is still noticeably larger, bulkier and has longer wings, with their wingbeats being deeper, more deliberate and slower than their South Eiðmorallian Goshawk cousins or other similarly-sized birds of prey. The closest relative of the North Eiðmorallian Goshawk is the grey-crested Yekadniy goshawk (Accipiter tricollaris) that is found most often in the same habitats but doesn't move as far south. In the southern stretches, the North Eiðmorallian Goshawk may instead live alongside Luzel's Hawk (Accipiter luzeli) which is smaller, with a more distinct bill shape and longer tail.Relationship with humans:
The North Eiðmorallian Goshawk adorns the flag and coat of arms of the Severmarkish Union of Federative Democratic Socialist Republics and acts as the country's national animal. The hawk is furthermore featured on the heraldry of the influential Vostoksvîkenish Nørreskyev family and their assets. The bird was chosen as the SUFDSR's national animal in 29 BVK following a series of referenda among elected People's lieutenants concerning external policies of the young union. The hawk was already colloquially known as a symbol of the ancient Bråtaberg Kingdoms and their conquest of vast amounts of now Kélarian territory. Furthermore, the North Eiðmorallian Goshawk is a popular bird in falconry, the local specialty sport of the Lekhisjóðan Laetsitûn peninsula, due to its prowess against even larger animals such as wild geese, as well as smaller mammals. The earliest known depictions of North Eiðmorallian Goshawks go back as far as the late paleolithicum, with mural paintings and wooden figurines of Goshawks having been found on the island of Starmal-Grâv in Ljodasvaeda and in the Galter do Hôtouan moorlands in Kélaria minor. Farmers and landowners used to breed this hawk for protection of crop and cattle. Notably, in 414 BVK, the parish of Akniniste in Vostoksvîken decreed that no Goshawks may be killed in and surrounding the populated areas, despite them often going for domesticated pets living outdoors or smaller farm animals such as chickens, geese, ducks and even lambs. Some people believe this vernacular dichotomy between the Severmarkish Goshawk and the Kélarian national animal, the Goose, was one factor that contributed to the Goshawk being made the SUFDSR's flag animal in 29 BVK. This notion was further reinforced by the Kélari change of the Kingdom's national animal from the Goose to the Stallion in 24 BVK. One notable appearance of the North Eiðmorallian Goshawk in recent popular culture was in Ekhil Silassen Pyatôsin's anti-Kélarian caricature series that appeared in the Red Petrel's underground newspaper "The Red Severmark Sentinel" (Sjóðaveric: Khvakt Røsnayi Severmarkii) during the times of the Kélarian occupation. Kjell Viktersen Åkhrimenko worked as an illustrator for the newspaper with Pyatôsin during his time in the Red Petrels.Basic Information
Anatomy
Medium to large bird of prey. Broad and sturdy wings and a long tail. Sizeable bill, strong short legs with large claws. Most of the species is brownish-grey with darker or white striking. Individuals become paler as they age.
Genetics and Reproduction
Mating for life, breeding begins at age 2-3. Several nests may be built by couples in territory. Courtship characterised by flight displays and vocalisations. Eggs usually incubate for 35-45 days.
Ecology and Habitats
North Eiðmorallian Goshawks may be found all across the Eiðmorall Ring, some having migrated overseas to Lucrétia, Ilfradiouna and the Kalthofean territories. Close relatives of the species are also found in the southern hemisphere as far as northern Aerusia. Hunts around forest borders, rivers and rural fields. They prefer coniferous forests, or forests with denser layering to accommodate their nests. North Eiðmorallian Goshawks migrate southwards during the Winter months, however, a contingent of hawks is observed to always stay behind in a given territory to guard existing nests. As such, despite their territorial behaviour, North Eiðmorallian Goshawks display a certain degree of species and group awareness.
Appears on the flag and coat of arms of the Severmarkish Union of Federative Democratic Socialist Republics. Popular animals in Falconry.
Dietary Needs and Habits
Hunts wide variety of smaller mammals, birds and reptiles, including mice, raccoons, foxes, snakes and even other birds of prey. A particular treat of theirs is the brown Sand badger, widespread in the southern regions of the Eiðmorall Ring. North Eiðmorallian Goshawks usually hunt either in pairs or the female on its own, while the male guards the nest. This allows them to either gather as much food and nutrition as possible in preparation for nesting, or to ensure optimal defence of the young.
Hunting techniques vary, but must commonly a classic circle-observe-swoop tactic is observed in which the birds spot prey from high up, circle above it in anticipation for the right moment and then swiftly swoop almost vertically downwards, grabbing their prey with their strong, clawed feet.
Behaviour
Usually found in pairs and territorial. Home area ranges from 400-5500 hectars. Some multiple pairs have been observed sharing common nesting and resting areas, often bringing freshly caught prey with them.
Additional Information
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Highly developed eyes with excellent long-distance vision. Able to see a wider range of colours than humans, yet disadvantaged at night compared to Owls. These birds, like other hawks, are tetrachromatic, giving them the ability to perceive ultraviolet light.
Younger Male North Eiðmorallian Goshawk, telephotograph by Ecologist I.P Sheredâl, 35 AVK
Close-up depiction of a North Eiðmorallian Goshawk's cranium, monochrome illustration by ornithologist Isidore Tardivel, 5 AVK
Scientific Name
Accipiter borealis eiðmorallensis
Origin/Ancestry
Accipitridae
Lifespan
Wild: up to ~12 years. In Captivity: up to ~28 years.
Conservation Status
Least Concern, expanding range and possibly increasing in the north-east during recent decades. In pre-modern times, North Eiðmorallian Goshawks were bred as guard animals in tandem with guard hounds to protect crop and cattle, which led to a population boom. Environmental experts voice concerns about possible overpopulation and threats to their prey species.
Average Height
48-79 cm
Average Weight
0.55-1.8 kg
Average Length
Wingspan: 1.2-1.4 m
Geographic Distribution
Discovered by
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