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We documented active nests of the Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) at 16 different areas in Connecticut from 1997-1999. A total of 176 prey individuals were identified from remains found under goshawk nests and prey-plucking posts. Birds represented the dominant component of diets (70.5%) with a lower contribution from mammals (29.5%). Overall, Connecticut goshawk diets were dominated by sciurids and Ruffed Grouse (Bonasa umbellus). Productivity calculated from 15 known nesting attempts totaled 32 young for an average of 2.13 young per nesting attempt (range 1-4 young). Goshawks nested in large tracts of mature forests with high levels of canopy cover (82%). The nest site topography was consistent with previous studies finding that goshawks avoid southern slopes. Tree densities in the larger size classes and basal area were characteristic for mature forest. Goshawks constructed their nests in large diameter trees, which averaged 41.7 cm in diameter at breast height. Patch size of contiguous forests surrounding goshawk nests revealed a very high mean of 324.5 ha, thus suggesting that large forest patch size may be important for nesting by this forest interior species. Analysis of 202 ha circles centered on each nest revealed that total forest cover averaged 156.1 ha, which was comprised of 65.2 ha for conifer forest, 75.6 ha for deciduous forest, and 17.4 ha for mixed forest. Overall, the post-fledgling family areas for these nests were dominated by forest cover (>75%). Our results suggest that goshawks usually prefer isolation and little human disturbance at the nest site, but some exceptions were noted. Given the highly fragmented and urbanized landscape of Connecticut, we suggest that goshawk management should focus on providing large tracts of mature forest at least 300 ha in extent.

Issue: 31 Journal Abbreviation: Stud. Avian Biol. Pages: 125 Publication Title: Stud. Avian Biol.