How to identify the African Hobby

To correctly identify the African Hobby (Falco cuvierii), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

25-30 cm

Wingspan

60-72 cm

Weight

120-180 g

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults are dark slate-grey to blackish on the upperparts, including the head and nape. The underparts are rufous, often with fine dark streaking on the breast and flanks. The throat is white, contrasting with a dark malar stripe (moustache). The undertail coverts are plain rufous. The flight feathers are dark, and the tail is relatively short and dark.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Short, sharply hooked, dark grey to black with a yellow cere.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown, surrounded by a yellow eye-ring.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Yellow

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Distinctive rufous underparts, dark upperparts, prominent dark malar stripe, and swift, agile flight. The long, pointed wings are characteristic of hobbies.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles are duller and browner overall than adults, with more extensive streaking on the underparts, which are a paler rufous or buff. The upperparts may have faint pale feather edgings, giving a somewhat scaled appearance. The cere and eye-ring may be duller yellow.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. Plumage remains consistent year-round.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Females are generally slightly larger and heavier than males, but plumage is similar.

Key field marks

• Plumage Coloration. Look for the combination of dark slate-grey to blackish upperparts and rich rufous underparts. The white throat and dark malar stripe are also key.
• Flight Style. Observe its swift, agile, and acrobatic flight, often involving rapid wing beats and sudden changes in direction, especially when hunting insects or small birds.
• Size and Shape. Note its relatively small, slender build with long, pointed wings typical of hobbies. It's larger than a kestrel but smaller than most larger falcons.
• Habitat. Consider the habitat – open woodlands, savannas, and forest edges are prime locations. Often seen perching on prominent dead trees or snags.
• Vocalizations. Listen for its characteristic high-pitched, rapid 'kik-kik-kik' calls, especially if disturbed or during the breeding season.

Explore the African Hobby