The Maldives is celebrated worldwide for its coral reefs, white-sand beaches, and turquoise lagoons—but above these islands, a quieter natural spectacle unfolds each year. During seasonal migrations, several species of falcons pass through or winter in the Maldives, using the archipelago as a stepping stone across the Indian Ocean.
Among the most notable are the Amur Falcon, Eurasian Hobby, and Peregrine Falcon. Their presence highlights the Maldives’ importance not only as a tropical destination, but also as part of a vast global network of migratory routes.
According to Birds of the Maldives Islands by J. S. Ash and Ali Shafeeq, these falcons are recorded as either passage migrants or winter visitors, with sightings closely linked to migration seasons.
Local Name in Dhivehi
In Dhivehi, falcons are generally known as Baazu. Because most falcon species recorded in the Maldives are migratory and seasonal, there are no firmly established species-specific Dhivehi names. The term Baazu is therefore used broadly for falcons and large birds of prey, with the Peregrine Falcon being the species most commonly associated with the name due to its more regular occurrence.
Amur Falcon (Falco amurensis)
Local (Dhivehi) name : Baazu
The long-distance voyager
The Amur Falcon is one of the world’s most remarkable migratory raptors. Breeding in northeastern Asia, it undertakes an extraordinary journey to southern Africa, crossing vast stretches of land and ocean.
In the Maldives
- Status: Passage migrant
- Season: Mainly October–November
- Occurrence: Occasional, usually brief stopovers
In the Maldives, Amur Falcons are recorded during southbound migration. They are typically seen feeding on flying insects such as dragonflies before continuing their journey. Their appearance is fleeting, making each sighting especially memorable for bird-watchers (Ash & Shafeeq, 1994).
Eurasian Hobby (Falco subbuteo)
Local (Dhivehi) name: Baazu
The agile aerial hunter
Slim, fast, and highly maneuverable, the Eurasian Hobby is an elegant falcon known for hunting birds and insects in mid-air.
In the Maldives
- Status: Rare passage migrant
- Season: Mainly October–April
- Occurrence: Infrequent but repeated records
The Eurasian Hobby is an uncommon visitor to the Maldives, usually appearing briefly during migration. It hunts over open areas and wetlands, taking advantage of migrating small birds and abundant insects before moving on (Ash & Shafeeq, 1994).
Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)
Local (Dhivehi) name: Baazu
The world’s fastest bird
The Peregrine Falcon is famous worldwide for its incredible speed, reaching over 300 km/h during hunting dives. It is also one of the most widely distributed birds on the planet.
In the Maldives
- Status: Winter visitor and passage migrant
- Season: Mainly October–March
- Occurrence: The most regularly observed falcon in the country
Peregrines are often seen along coastlines and lagoons, hunting shorebirds and seabirds. Compared to other falcons, they stay longer and are more frequently encountered, making them the most familiar Baazu to local observers (Ash & Shafeeq, 1994).
Why Falcons Matter in the Maldives
The Maldives lies along a major migratory route linking Asia, Africa, and Europe. For falcons, the islands provide:
- Temporary resting points during long ocean crossings
- Reliable food sources
- Safe open spaces for hunting
Their presence reflects the Maldives’ role in a globally connected ecosystem, extending far beyond its reefs and beaches.
When and Where to Look
- Best season: October to March
- Best locations: Coastal islands, lagoons, wetlands, open resort islands
- Best times: Early morning and late afternoon
A pair of binoculars and a bit of patience can reward visitors with unforgettable encounters high above the islands.
Reference
Ash, J. S. & Shafeeq, A. (1994). Birds of the Maldives Islands, Indian Ocean. Oriental Bird Club, UK.
Birds of Maldives – Ash & Shafe…
