Oriental Hobby
NameOriental Hobby
Common NameOriental Hobby
Scientific NameFalco severus
FamilyFalconidae
Wingspan (cm)70
Length (cm)28.5
Weight (g)175
Plumage DetailsAdults have dark slate-grey upperparts and a distinct black cap. The throat and cheeks are white, sharply contrasting with a prominent black malar stripe. The underparts are a rich rufous, often darker on the belly and flanks. The cere and orbital ring are bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of a rapid, high-pitched 'kew-kew-kew' or 'kek-kek-kek' series, often given in flight or when agitated.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across a wide range in South and Southeast Asia, from the Himalayas eastward through China, Indochina, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
Identifying Featuresblack cap, white throat, rufous underparts, dark slate-grey upperparts, yellow cere and orbital ring, swift, agile flight
Description
The Oriental Hobby is a small, agile falcon characterized by its dark upperparts, black cap, and striking rufous underparts. It is a swift flyer, often seen hunting large insects, small birds, and bats in flight, particularly at dusk.
