UK Wildlife

Hobby Aerial Insectivore and Long-distance Migrant

The hobby is an elegant, fast-flying falcon that arrives from Africa each May to breed in lowland England, feeding on dragonflies and swallows in spectacular aerial hunts.

Key Facts

Hobby catches dragonflies in its feet and eats them while still flying
UK breeding population around 2,800 pairs, mainly in southern and central England
Arrives in May from African wintering grounds and departs September-October
Uses old crow nests in isolated trees, particularly at heathland edge
One of the fastest UK birds in level flight

Welfare Considerations

Hobby populations have expanded northward in recent decades, possibly linked to climate change and increasing dragonfly populations. Loss of heathland and hedgerow trees with adjacent wetland habitat could affect breeding. Disturbance at nest sites risks breeding failure.

What You Can Do

Maintain heathland and isolated veteran trees adjacent to water bodies for hobby nesting
Record hobby sightings through BTO Birdtrack to track expanding breeding range
Appreciate hobby aerial hunting as one of UK's most spectacular wildlife experiences