African Hobby look-alikes
Falco cuvierii
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the African Hobby. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Eurasian Hobby
Falco subbuteo
Key differences
The Eurasian Hobby has a more distinct white throat and cheeks, with a less extensive rufous wash on the underparts, which are heavily streaked. It also has prominent rufous 'trousers' (thighs) which are less distinct or absent in the African Hobby. The African Hobby is generally darker overall with a more uniform rufous belly.
Sooty Falcon
Falco concolor
Key differences
The Sooty Falcon is uniformly dark grey, lacking the rufous underparts of the African Hobby. It also has a longer tail and more slender build. Its flight is often described as more buoyant.
Red-necked Falcon
Falco chicquera
Key differences
The Red-necked Falcon has a distinctive rufous nape and hindneck, and barred underparts, which are absent in the African Hobby. It also has a more robust build and different habitat preferences.
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