Wildlife

Wild Hobby Aerial Insectivore Welfare

Hobbies are spectacular aerial predators that feed on dragonflies and large insects, vulnerable to insect decline and habitat loss.

Key Facts

Hobbies arrive in the UK from West Africa in May and depart by September
They feed almost exclusively on dragonflies, large moths, and swallows in aerial pursuit
Hobby numbers have increased in the UK as they have expanded northward
Dragonfly-rich heathland, gravel pits, and wetland edges are optimal hobby habitat
Hobbies catch swallows and swifts in spectacular aerial chases, rarely causing conservation concern

Welfare Considerations

Hobby welfare depends on abundant aerial insect prey, particularly dragonflies. Insect decline from pesticides and habitat loss reduces prey availability. Individual hobbies in insect-poor areas must work harder for each catch, increasing energy expenditure. Supporting insect-rich habitats directly supports hobby welfare.

What You Can Do

Support heathland and wetland restoration creating dragonfly habitat
Reduce or eliminate pesticide use in gardens and farmland near hobby breeding areas
Contribute to raptor monitoring programmes recording hobby distribution and breeding