AFRICAN HOBBY Meaning and
Definition
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The term "African hobby" refers to a species of small falcon, scientifically known as Falco cuvierii, which belongs to the Falconidae family. Also commonly known as the African hobby falcon, it is indigenous to the continent of Africa and is primarily found in the woodland and savanna regions.
The African hobby typically measures around 28 to 33 centimeters in length and displays a distinctive appearance with long, pointed wings and a slim body. Its plumage consists of a combination of medium to dark brown on the upperparts, while the underparts are lighter with a pale chestnut color. The face of the African hobby boasts striking yellow eyes and a distinctive black malar stripe. Additionally, it has a hooked beak and sharp talons, characteristic of birds of prey.
As a diurnal species, the African hobby is an adept aerial hunter, using its impressive speed and agility to catch small birds, insects, and occasionally bats as its primary source of food. They are known for their exceptional maneuverability in flight, capable of executing swift turns and dives to capture prey mid-air.
Although the African hobby is not classified as endangered, its population may be progressively declining due to habitat loss, climate change, and human activities. However, they can still be observed in various protected areas across Africa, adding to the biodiversity of the continent's ecosystems.
Etymology of AFRICAN HOBBY
The term African hobby does not have a separate etymology as it is a combination of two words: African and hobby. Each word has its own etymology:
1. African: The word African relates to the continent of Africa. It comes from the Latin word Africus, which means pertaining to Africa. The Latin term itself may have originated from the name of the Berber tribe called Afridi or the Roman word Aprica meaning sunny.
2. Hobby: The word hobby has a different origin. It comes from the Middle English term hobi, which was a small horse used for leisure or pleasure riding. Over time, the term expanded to mean any occupation, activity, or pastime pursued for pleasure or relaxation. This ultimately led to the modern-day meaning of the word hobby.
