Falconry, the art of flying trained birds of prey after wild quarry, is alive and well in the United States. Imagine the thrill of walking through a field with a falcon flying above your head at 1,000 feet or higher. She is waiting for you to flush a pheasant from the bushes. You know it is there because your well trained pointers have indicated. When the falcon is in the proper position, you flush the game, the falcon turns and begins its head first dive. Your adrenaline is rushing. The next thing you know, the falcon hits the pheasant in the air, binds to it, then carries it to the ground where she will patiently await her reward.
This is Falconry…
Spencer, the Harris Hawk
Picture yourself walking through a field hitting every piece of brush and trying to flush out rabbits. Your Harris Hawk follows you from tree to tree, waiting and anticipating the flushing of game. Suddenly a rabbit breaks from the brush, the hawk quickly takes off, and turns to chase the rabbit in aggressive pursuit. Eventually the rabbit out maneuvers the hawk, he turns in mid-air and returns to your glove for a small reward.
This is Falconry…
The Sport of Kings
Historically, falconry was used as status symbol for the nobles of Medieval Europe, Middle East, and Mongolian Empire. The sport was mainly restricted to these classes due to the commitment of time, money, and space. Although the nobles would not train the birds themselves, they would pay Master Falconers extravagant sums of money. The Master of the Mews was in charge of obtaining, grooming, and keeping the best hawks in constant readiness for hunting. Thus, Falconry became the Sport of Kings!
Within nomadic societies, birds of prey were not a status symbol. Instead, falcons were trapped and used to hunt small game during the winter months. These falcons helped to supplement their very limited diet.
Lessons
Come join our experienced falconer for a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Our Beginner’s Lesson is perfect for anyone who would like to have a close encounter with our magnificent birds of prey. After taking the Beginner’s Lesson, get a more hands-on experience in our Intermediate Lesson!
If you want to add some excitement to your business meeting or evening event, check out our Falconry Workshops!