Wildlife Welfare

Wild Hobby Welfare

Hobbies are spectacular summer migrants that feed on dragonflies and small birds. Their welfare depends on insect-rich habitats and undisturbed breeding in tall trees.

Key Facts

Hobbies arrive in the UK from Africa in April-May and depart by October
They are the fastest UK falcon and specialise in catching dragonflies and swallows in flight
Hobby populations have remained relatively stable while many migrants have declined
They nest in old crows' nests in tall trees and are sensitive to disturbance
Dragonfly habitat including ponds and wetlands supports their primary prey base

Welfare Considerations

Hobby welfare depends on insect-rich habitats and undisturbed tall-tree nesting sites. Conservation of wetland habitats that support dragonfly populations is the most important welfare and conservation action.

What You Can Do

Support wetland conservation that maintains dragonfly populations for hobbies
Respect tree-nesting birds including hobbies during the breeding season
Report hobby sightings to BirdTrack for population monitoring
Learn about hobby ecology and their remarkable aerial hunting behaviour