Falconry is the sport of the kings of Medieval Europe. Indeed, in medieval Europe, falcons were so highly valued that twelve white gyrfalcons (only kings were permitted to fly these regal birds) was ransomed in return for a kidnapped duchess. When you see this incredible animal, it is easy to understand why.
white gyrfalcon
Falcons are highly valued in many cultures - whether it is in Saudi Arabia, where a falcon might cost up to $3 million, or in Native American lore, where a falcon was seen as a symbol of speed and strength, one cannot deny the impression that falcons leave on humans.
Some humans have taken up this mantle of being a caretaker and companion of these incredible birds. They are called falconers if they fly a falcon, austringers if they fly a hawk or eagle. Both of these people will keep birds of prey as companions in hunting. A falconer is more likely to hunt game such as waterfowl, pheasant, ptarmigan, and other game birds, while austringers will hunt rabbit, squirrel, rat, and in Mongolia, austringers that fly golden eagles have been known to hunt fox, deer, and wolves with their massive hunting companions.
Some people are avid hunters and want to try a new kind of hunting. Others are bird enthusiasts with a passion for conservation - most falconers are a combination of both. And yet, there are other falconers that just like the art part of falconry.
The youtube video on the right is an example of some of the fun you can do with falcons and hawks. I know of a falconer that goes hang-gliding with his hawks, and I have heard of one that will take his peregrine falcon sky-diving with him, in a race to the earth.
Whatever your interest in falcons and falconry, it is undoubtedly a rewarding experience. If you are an aspiring falconer from the states, The Modern Apprentice is an absolutely must-visit for falconry basics and resources.
