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SCHOLS R (1987) Short contributions: Joint hunting of Hobbies Falco subbuteo. LIMOSA 60 (1): 41-41.

On 23 May 1986 a pair of Hobbies Falco subbuteo were seen chasing a Swift Apus apus near Geleen (Limburg). During several minutes especially the male was very active and attacked the Swift, mainly by flying behind the bird and sometimes by diving at it. The female was mostly seen flying near the Swift, but now and then she also swooped on the bird. At first the victim could easily escape the attacks. However, after c. 5 min, the bird got confused and became exhausted, after which the male could easily overtake and catch it. The female immediately took over the prey and flew downwards. It is possible that this case of joint hunting must be considered as a kind of prenuptial behaviour of a breeding pair.

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limosa 60.1 1987
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