When it comes to falconry, one of the most common questions people ask is what animals falconers hunt. Well, if you’re hunting with a peregrine falcon, you’d be targeting a variety of game birds such as pheasants, grouse, quail, and even ducks.
It’s important to note that falconry is not simply about training a bird to hunt for you. The birds used in falconry are still wild animals with their own instincts and free will. Falconers work diligently to build a bond and trust with their birds, but they cannot control them like a trained dog or a horse.
To be a falconer, one must devote a tremendous amount of time, effort, and dedication. It’s not a hobby for the faint of heart. Falconers spend hours upon hours training their birds, building a relationship based on mutual respect and understanding. This requires patience, consistency, and a deep understanding of the bird’s behavior and needs.
The hunting process itself is a true testament to the skill and teamwork between the falconer and the bird. When hunting, the falcon is released to fly and pursue its prey. It uses its incredible speed and agility to chase down the target, often reaching speeds of over 240 miles per hour during its stoop (dive) towards the prey.
Once the falcon successfully captures its prey, it will bring it back to the falconer, who rewards the bird with a small piece of meat as a form of positive reinforcement. This reinforces the falcon’s natural instinct to return to the falconer and ensures that the bird doesn’t fly off with its kill.
It’s worth mentioning that falconry is a highly regulated sport in many countries. Falconers must obtain proper permits and licenses, and they are subject to strict regulations regarding the species they can hunt, the seasons during which hunting is allowed, and the number of birds they can possess.
Falconers primarily hunt game birds such as pheasants, grouse, quail, and ducks with their trained peregrine falcons. However, it’s crucial to remember that falconry is much more than just hunting. It’s a deep and profound connection between a falconer and their bird, rooted in respect, trust, and a shared passion for the sport.