Falconry is an ancient hunting art passed on over generations. For particular periods in history, the practice was only reserved for nobles.
In the modern day, however, falconry has dropped out of favor for other everyday activities in our technological society. Nonetheless, some people enjoy the thrill and fun of falconry.
The sport of falconry is an active sport that requires a lot of dedication, effort, and time to practice and be good at.
This article looks at the sport of falconry, its historical origins, and how it is practiced today. If you are interested in learning about falconry, read how to start.
What is Falconry?
Falconry refers to an ancient art of hunting with birds of prey. Birds of prey, typically hawks, falcons, or eagles, are trained to hunt game.
Britannica defines falconry as “the sport of employing falcons, true hawks, and sometimes eagles or buzzards in hunting game.”
The hunted animals, usually squirrels, rabbits, hares, or other bird species, are typically found in their natural habitat, making this sport unique and exciting.
Falconers use their learned skills to train a hawk to hunt. Since these birds of prey have the instinct to hunt, they form the best partners in the hunting game.
The practice is similar in many regions, with some differences in bird species in certain areas, legislation, and the environment available for hunting.
History of Falconry
The origin of falconry is unclear.
However, early reports indicate it was widespread in many parts of the world, including the Middle East, North Africa, North Asia, and Europe.
Archaeological evidence suggests that as early as the seventh century AD, there were concrete figurines of falconers on the rocks of Kyrgyz, Central Asia. Several illustrations depicted Mongol herders with falcons. These depictions are believed to date back to 2000 BC.
The practice of falconry symbolized military prowess in Japan, and in places such as Bedouin, and the Arabian Desert, herders practiced falconry to supplement food during winter.
Falconry reached its peak popularity in medieval Europe, where the nobility practiced it. In England, it was considered to be the sport of kings.
The possession of birds of prey was considered a status symbol. However, falconry began to decline in the early modern period as firearms became more widely used for hunting.
Today, falconry is enjoying a resurgence in popularity as people appreciate the skill and artistry involved in the sport. While it is no longer the exclusive preserve of the wealthy, it remains a fascinating and challenging pursuit for those who take it up.
Terms Commonly Used In Falconry
Falconer | One who flies a falcon |
Austringer | One who flies a hawk |
Raptor | Large birds of prey |
Game/Quarry | Hunted animals for sport |
Dummy Bunny | Lures used to engage bird’s behavior |
How Falconry is Practiced
Falcons, hawks, and other birds of prey are trained to work with humans. They are released into the wild to hunt. The bird will then return to the handler with the game, and the handler will provide the bird with food and water.
Falconry is highly dependent on the shared techniques between the raptor and the falconer. For example, the bird soars while the falconer walks beneath them or is perched on a high point where they can find their game.
Training as a Falconer
To become a falconer, one must complete an apprenticeship under the guidance of an experienced falconer. During this apprenticeship, the apprentice will learn how to care for and train birds of prey.
They will also learn about the equipment used in falconry, the different types of hunts, and the regulations governing the sport.
You can also get a lot of information about the sport from published books.
Once the apprenticeship is complete, the falconer can obtain a license from their local wildlife agency.
Land
Falconry requires an expansive piece of land where the game is available. Deserts and moorlands form ideal hunting grounds. If you do not have access to such land, you can seek permission from property owners.
Remember, power lines, roads, and urban settings with barbed wire are hazardous to the raptors.
Regulation
Falconry is a regulated sport in many countries, and strict laws govern the practice. In the United States, falconers must obtain a permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. There are also restrictions on the types of birds used for falconry and methods used to train the birds.
In Australia, privately owned a bird of prey is against the law. They are highly protected, and falconry is banned.
Hunting Season
Falconry can be practiced year-round, but the hunting season typically runs from September to February. During the hunting season, falconers will take their birds out regularly to allow them to practice their skills.
Conclusion
With a long history and exciting way of life, Falconry is still practiced today. It is a highly active sport, requiring a great deal of time and commitment.
If you are interested in hunting and are ready to invest your life emotionally, you can join your local falconry organization. Be sure to enjoy the art.