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Sound clips and movies require Adobe Flash player. Latin nameFalco subbuteo FamilyFalcons and allies (Falconidae) OverviewAbout the size of a kestrel with long pointed wings, reminiscent of a giant swift. It has a dashing flight and will chase large insects and small birds like swallows and martins. Prey is often caught in its talons and transferred to its beak in flight. Can accelerate rapidly in flight and is capable of high-speed aerial manoeuvres. Where to see themNow breeds across central, southern and eastern England, into S Wales and just about reaching northn England and S Scotland. Best looked for hunting over woodland edges, heathlands where there is plenty of large insect prey. Gravel pits are a popular feeding areas in late summer when there is plenty of food. When to see themArrives in the UK from April onwards and mainly leaves in September and October. Best looked for on warm summer days when there are plenty of dragonflies, summer chafers and other prey around. What they eatInsects and small birds Estimated numbers
* UK breeding is the number of pairs breeding annually. UK wintering is the number of individuals present from October to March. UK passage is the number of individuals passing through on migration in spring and/or autumn. Distribution
Please note that the map is only intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations. Audio is from commercial recordings Bird Songs and Calls of Britain and Europe on 4 CDs or Bird Sounds of Europe & North-west Africa, copyright WildSounds & CEBA (www.wildsounds.com, (UK) +44 (0) 1263 741100) |
 Adult  Juvenile Similar birdsHelp the HobbyBirds of prey continue to be killed mercilessly, despite the fact that it is illegal and has been for decades. Please add your name to our online pledge and say 'the killing must stop'. |
Heather at Arne nature reserve - Ben Hall
Hobby in flight, with a caught insect - Steve Round
Bird illustrations by Mike Langman (RSPB)