Australian Hobby
Falco longipennis
The Australian Hobby (Falco longipennis) is a uncommon falcons and caracara found in 4 countries, weighing about 250 g. The Australian hobby, also known as the little falcon, is one of six Australian members of the family Falconidae.
About the Australian Hobby
The Australian hobby, also known as the little falcon, is one of six Australian members of the family Falconidae. This predominantly diurnal bird of prey derives its name 'longipennis' from its long primary wing feathers. It occurs throughout Australia and other neighbouring countries with migrating individuals found on the islands of Indonesia and New Guinea.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
How to identify it
Smaller than other falcons, the Australian hobby is relatively slender and long winged. Its plumage varies in colour depending on sex, age and environment with a darker form in humid areas and a lighter form in drier environments. Generally the hobby displays a black cap and mask with a whitish forehead and half-collar. Underparts can be blue-grey or rufous and streaked darker. The cere in adults is a pale yellowish grey, the eye ring is pale blue, the eyes are brown and the feet are dull yellow. Females are larger in size between 34 and 35. Voice: Research undertaken comparing the vocalisations of Australian falcons, found that two structurally distinct calls were emitted when a male hobby was restrained. This included a wide band harmonic vocalisation and a trill-type vocalisation.
Where it lives
When to see it
The Australian Hobby can be seen all year round, with peak activity in January. It is a resident species across most of its range.
Easily confused with
Quick questions
- How do you identify an Australian Hobby?
- Smaller than other falcons, the Australian hobby is relatively slender and long winged. Full identification notes are on this page.
- How big is an Australian Hobby?
- The Australian Hobby is a medium sized bird weighing about 250 g.
- Where can you see an Australian Hobby?
- The Australian Hobby occurs in 4 countries, including Australia, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia and Timor-Leste.
- What birds look similar to an Australian Hobby?
- The Australian Hobby is most easily confused with the Rock Kestrel, the Red-footed Falcon and the Amur Falcon.
- Is the Australian Hobby endangered?
- The Australian Hobby is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
Learn the Australian Hobby for real
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