Accipiter gentilis is commonly known as the northern goshawk, a bird of prey that is widespread in the boreal forests of the northern hemisphere. While the scientific name Accipiter gentilis is most commonly used to refer to this bird, there are several synonyms that may be used as well. One such synonym is Astur palumbarius, another species of bird of prey that is closely related to the northern goshawk. Other synonyms include Accipiter atricapillus, Accipiter gentiles, and Accipiter gentilis buteoformis. These synonyms all refer to the same species of bird, and can be used interchangeably in scientific literature and conversation.