The Eurasian hobby or just hobby, is a small, slim falcon. It belongs to a group of similar falcons often considered a subgenus Hypotriorchis.
Region
Palearctic (breeding), sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia (wintering)
Typical Environment
Breeds across much of temperate Europe and Asia in open landscapes with scattered trees, forest edges, and wetlands. Winters mainly in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South and Southeast Asia. Prefers mosaics of woodland, farmland, grassland, and marsh where aerial insects are abundant. Frequently hunts over lakes, river valleys, and above villages where swallows gather.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Eurasian hobby is a small, exceptionally agile falcon famed for catching dragonflies and swift-flying birds like swallows on the wing. Its species name, subbuteo, inspired the name of the tabletop football game Subbuteo. It often reuses old corvid nests rather than building its own. The warm rufous 'trousers' on its thighs are a classic field mark.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
strong, agile flier with rapid wingbeats and swift-like scythe-shaped wings
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs during breeding, using old nests of crows high in trees. Performs aerial courtship with food passes. Outside breeding, may gather loosely at dusk over wetlands or fields where insects swarm.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Generally quiet; the voice is a sharp, high-pitched kik-kik-kik given in alarm or near the nest. Also utters short chittering calls during courtship and when interacting with a mate.
