Wildlife

Hobby: Agile Summer Falcon Chasing Swifts and Dragonflies

The hobby is a summer visitor that has expanded its UK range but faces threats from aerial prey decline and persecution during migration.

Key Facts

Hobbies are fast agile falcons that can catch swifts in the air
UK population has increased significantly reaching around 2,800 pairs by 2012
They are summer visitors arriving from Africa in May and departing by October
Hobbies nest in old crow or magpie nests in trees at woodland edges
They are capable of hunting at dusk taking large moths and other insects

Welfare Considerations

Hobbies face welfare challenges from aerial insect decline which affects their prey base. Dragonfly populations depend on clean wetlands and insect-friendly farming. Persecution during migration in Mediterranean countries causes significant mortality. Habitat loss at woodland edges and farm tree removal reduces nesting opportunities. Cold wet summers reduce flying insect availability starving chicks.

What You Can Do

Support wetland creation and restoration that benefits dragonfly prey for hobbies
Campaign against illegal trapping and persecution of raptors during migration
Plant native hedgerow and edge trees to provide hobby nesting opportunities
Support insect-friendly farming approaches that increase aerial insect abundance
Report any suspected persecution of hobbies to police wildlife officers