The African hobby is a small species of bird of prey in the family Falconidae.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Found from West to East and southern Africa in a patchwork of suitable habitats, especially forest edges, open woodland, savanna mosaics, and riverine corridors. It frequently hunts over wetlands, floodplains, and clearings where aerial insects are abundant. The species also occurs around agricultural areas and villages if tall trees and open airspace are present. It generally avoids dense interior forests and hyper-arid deserts.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The African hobby is a small, fast falcon specialized in agile aerial hunting, often chasing dragonflies and small birds at dusk. It is widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, using woodland edges and riverine habitats. Like other hobbies, it often reuses old stick nests high in trees rather than building its own. Generally quiet, it becomes more vocal near the nest with sharp, chittering calls.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, swerving chases; capable of brief soaring
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. It often nests in old stick nests high in tall trees along forest edges or near water. Courtship involves fast aerial pursuits and food passes. Outside breeding, it may gather loosely at rich food sources such as termite emergences.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Generally quiet, it gives sharp, chittering calls and repeated kek-kek notes near the nest. Alarm calls are rapid and high-pitched, carrying well through the canopy.
Plumage
Upperparts dark slaty-grey with a contrasting paler throat and finely streaked underparts. The thighs and vent are rich rufous, and the tail is dark with subtle barring. Feathers are sleek and compact, built for swift, agile flight.
Diet
Primarily hunts flying insects, notably dragonflies, beetles, and flying termites, which it catches on the wing and often eats in flight. It also takes small birds and occasionally bats when opportunities arise. Prey is usually captured over open areas or along watercourses where aerial insects congregate.
Preferred Environment
Feeds over wetlands, riverbanks, open woodland, and forest clearings, especially where insect swarms occur. It frequently works the airspace at the edge of trees and above grasslands.
