Falconry: The Age-Old Sport of Hunting with Birds

Falconry, or the sport of hunting with birds of prey, has been around for centuries and has been practiced by people from all over the world. It’s a fascinating practice and one that requires a lot of skill, patience, and dedication. In this article, we will explore the history and practice of falconry, the different types of birds that are used for the sport, and the regulations that govern it.

The History of Falconry

Falconry dates back to ancient times and was practiced by the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Chinese. It was also popular in the Middle Ages, especially in Europe. During this time, falconry was a sport mostly practiced by the upper class, as it required a lot of resources, knowledge, and time. Falcons have been used for hunting purposes since antiquity because of their natural abilities: they can fly high and can spot prey from great distances.

The Art of Falconry

Falconry is an art that involves training birds of prey, such as falcons, hawks, and eagles, to hunt small game. The training process is long and challenging, and it requires a lot of patience, discipline, and knowledge. Initially, the bird is trained to perch on a gloved hand and to fly short distances. Once it becomes accustomed to following commands and returns to its handler, the bird will be trained to catch small prey.

The birds used for falconry are mostly obtained from the wild. Falconers will capture young birds, or “eyases,” which are easier to train. However, they need to obtain the necessary permits from the government first. Training the bird involves a lot of patience, consistency, and trust-building between the bird and the handler.

The Different Types of Birds Used in Falconry

There are several types of birds used in falconry, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common types:

Falcons

Falcons are the most popular birds of prey used in falconry. They are incredibly fast and agile, making them great hunters. They can reach up to 240 miles per hour in a dive, making them the fastest birds in the world.

Hawks

Hawks are slightly bigger than falcons and are often used for hunting in wooded areas. They are quieter and require less room to fly than falcons. Hawks have excellent hearing and can pinpoint their prey easily.

Eagles

Eagles are rare in falconry due to their size and strength. They are the biggest birds of prey and can carry much larger prey than falcons or hawks. They are also much harder to train than other birds.

Regulations Governing Falconry

In the US, falconry is regulated by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and requires a federal permit to practice. In addition, most states also have their own regulations. In general, falconry is strictly regulated to ensure that the welfare of the bird is maintained and that the sport is practiced in a sustainable and responsible manner.

Conclusion

Falconry is a fascinating sport and has been around for centuries. It requires a lot of patience, skill, and dedication from both the bird and the handler. However, it is also regulated to ensure that the practice is done in a responsible and sustainable way. If you are interested in learning more about falconry, make sure you do your research and find a reputable falconer to learn from.

FAQs

What are the benefits of practicing falconry?

Falconry requires a great deal of skill and patience, but it can be very rewarding. It allows individuals to experience a unique and special bond with a bird of prey while also enjoying the outdoors.

Is falconry legal in the US?

Yes, falconry is legal in the US, but it is strictly regulated by the government to ensure that the sport is practiced in a safe and sustainable way.

Are there different types of falconry?

Yes, there are different types of falconry based on the type of bird and hunting terrain.

What type of bird of prey is best for falconry?

There is no one best bird of prey for falconry, as each bird has its own strengths and weaknesses. Falconers need to determine which bird is best suited to their needs and goals.

How long does it take to train a bird of prey for falconry?

Training a bird of prey for falconry can take several months to several years, depending on the species, age, and temperament of the bird.

What are the risks of practicing falconry?

Practicing falconry requires a lot of care and attention, as it involves working with wild animals. There is always a risk of injury or illness, both for the bird and the handler, so it’s important to be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions.

What should I do if I’m interested in learning more about falconry?

If you’re interested in learning more about falconry, look for a reputable falconer in your area and ask if they can teach you. You can also find more information online or through falconry organizations. Just be sure to do your research and follow all regulations and guidelines.

References

“Falconry and Birds of Prey.” California Department of Fish and Wildlife, 2021, wildlife.ca.gov/conservation/birds-of-prey.

“Falconry – Regulations and Permits.” U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 2021, www.fws.gov/birds/management/managed-species/migratory-bird-permits/falconry-regulations-and-permits.php.

“Falconry History.” The International Association for Falconry and Conservation of Birds of Prey, 2021, www.iaf.org/falconry-history/.