Hobby

The hobby is a small falcon, smaller than a kestrel. With their long wings and streamlined shape, they are perfectly evolved for catching dragonflies and small birds, such as house martins and swifts, on the wing, often transferring their quarry from talon to mouth in mid-air. They are a migratory species, coming to the UK in summer to breed and wintering in Africa. Hobbies can be seen hunting over heathlands, flooded gravel pits and woodland edges.

How to Identify

The hobby is an elegant little falcon, slate-grey above and pale below, with black streaks on the belly and brick-red ‘trousers’. It has a white throat and cheeks, dark moustache and mask. With pointed wings, it looks like an over-sized swift in the air.

Where to Find

A summer visitor to the south and east of England and South Wales. A very rare visitor to Scotland.

How People Can Help

The Wildlife Trusts are working closely with farmers and landowners to promote wildlife-friendly practices. We are working towards a ‘Living Landscape’: a network of habitats and wildlife corridors across town and country which are good for both wildlife and people. You can support this greener vision for the future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.

Did you know?

Did you know?

The popular table-top football game known as ‘Subbuteo’ got its name from the scientific name of the hobby, Falco Subbuteo, because it was the designer’s favourite bird.