Northern Goshawk, the Gray Ghost: Habits, Habitat, and Rehabilitation

Many things in life are a matter of taste. The author's own artwork is used to illustrate this book and is one such matter of taste. Likewise are the hyperbole used to describe the species and its habits. The exclusive focus on Goshawks in the USA (despite the fact that the species breeds in suitable habitat throughout the northern hemisphere) will also not be to everyone's taste. A glance at the bibliography confirms that the habits of Goshawks elsewhere in the world were not of interest to the author. The text switches loosely from talking about the species to talking about the author, with 'first person' accounts chronicling his own exploits in the field. This approach may appeal to some tastes. The most enjoyable element of the book, for me, were the photographs, which are generally excellent. Readers looking for a book about one man's experience studying Goshawks in the USA and written in a distinctly American style will enjoy this book. Readers who wish to know more about the species throughout its range, including the UK, should look elsewhere.

Book reviewed by Ben Darvill