Hobby
Falco subbuteo
Overview
The Hobby is a master aerialist — a small, dashing falcon that can outfly a Swift and catch dragonflies in the air, transferring prey to its bill from its feet while flying. It's been expanding northward as the climate warms and now occurs regularly in Lancashire in summer. On the Sefton Coast, it follows dragonfly hatches over the dune slacks and Marshside lagoons in August and September, performing spectacular aerial acrobatics.
At a Glance
| Order | Falconiformes |
| Family | Falconidae |
| Habitat | Open dune grassland · Wetland edge · Farmland |
| Diet | Dragonflies and large insects (summer); small birds (Swallows, Martins, Swifts) |
| UK population | Around 2,800 pairs; increasing and expanding northward |
| Sefton Coast | Occasional in late summer — follows dragonflies over the dune slacks and Marshside |
| Conservation | UK Green List |
Where to See It
Over Marshside RSPB and dune slack ponds in late summer — follows dragonfly hatches.
Identification
Small, swift-like falcon. Blue-grey above, pale below with heavy dark streaking, rusty-red thighs (diagnostic on adults). Dark hood and moustache. Long pointed wings give 'large swift' silhouette. Very fast flight.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Watch over Marshside lagoons and dune slacks on warm August evenings when dragonflies are active. A falcon catching dragonflies on the wing and eating them in flight is almost certainly a Hobby.
Conservation Status
UK Green List
This species is on the UK Green List, indicating a healthy population status in the UK context. It remains an important component of Sefton Coast biodiversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Hobby really catch a Swift?
Yes. Hobbies are among the fastest birds in level flight and can catch Swifts, Swallows and House Martins. They hunt with sustained fast pursuit — their long, pointed wings enable them to match or exceed the evasive manoeuvres of fast-flying prey. They can also catch large dragonflies and eat them in flight, transferring the prey from feet to bill while still airborne.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.