BRITISH BIRDS. 



THE HOBBY. 



(Falco Subbiitco, Linn. Faucon hobercau, Temm.) 



THE length of the male is twelve inches ; breadth 

 about two feet ; the tips of the wings reach beyond 

 the extremity of the tail. The bill is blue; cere 

 and orbits of the eyes yellow; irides dark hazel; a 

 light coloured streak passes over each eye ; the top 

 of the head, and back, are bluish black; wing 

 coverts the same, but in some edged with rust 

 colour; the hinder part of the neck is marked with 

 two pale yellow spots ; a black mark from behind 

 each eye, pointing forward, is extended down on 

 the neck; the breast and belly are pale, marked 

 with dusky streaks; the thighs rusty with long 



