Eurasian Hobby
NameEurasian Hobby
Common NameEurasian Hobby
Scientific NameFalco subbuteo
FamilyFalconidae
Wingspan (cm)76.5
Length (cm)32.5
Weight (g)230
Plumage DetailsAdults have dark slate-grey upperparts, a distinctive dark cap, and white cheeks contrasting with a prominent black malar stripe (mustache). The underparts are whitish with heavy dark streaking, and the undertail coverts are a striking rufous-chestnut color. The cere and legs are yellow.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is typically a sharp, rapid 'kew-kew-kew' or 'ki-ki-ki' call, often given in alarm or during territorial displays.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, wetland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across most of Europe and Asia, from the Atlantic coast to Japan. It migrates south for the winter, primarily to sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South Asia.
Identifying FeaturesDark cap, White cheeks with prominent black malar stripe, Rufous undertail coverts, Slender body and pointed wings, Agile, swift flight
Description
The Eurasian Hobby is a small, slender falcon known for its incredibly agile and swift flight, often hunting insects and small birds on the wing. It is a migratory species, breeding across Eurasia and wintering in Africa and South Asia.
