About Falco longipennis Swainson, 1838
The Australian hobby (scientific name Falco longipennis Swainson, 1838) is smaller than other falcon species, with a relatively slender build and long wings. Its plumage colour varies based on sex, age, and environment: darker colour forms occur in humid areas, while lighter forms are found in drier environments. Generally, the Australian hobby has a black cap and mask, paired with a whitish forehead and half-collar. Its underparts can be blue-grey or rufous, with darker streaking. Adult individuals have a pale yellowish grey cere, a pale blue eye ring, brown eyes, and dull yellow feet. Females are larger, measuring 34 to 35.5 cm in length; males are generally 30 to 32 cm long, and the species has a total wingspan ranging from 66 to 87 cm. The Australian hobby is easily confused with the peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus), but it is more slender, has longer and thinner wings, and is a less powerful flyer. Australian hobbies live across mainland Australia, including on offshore islands such as Lord Howe Island, but their range is restricted in Tasmania. Migrating individuals have also been recorded on the islands of Indonesia and New Guinea. They frequent most open habitats, including open woodland, water courses, and vegetated urban areas, but are rarely recorded around cliffs or escarpments.
