Have you ever wondered what flying trained birds of prey after some wild quarry was called? Falconry is the name, and it is a cool thing to do.
Your trusty bird dog has let you know where your pheasant is going to be, your falcon is over 1,000 feet above waiting for your flushing out of the bushes, and at the right moment, it all comes together. The falcon heads in headfirst, will grab the prize, and offer it up at your feet awaiting a reward.
Not all hunts are a success. There are times that you will be sliding through the woods or field in hopes of flushing out a cute bunny, only for one to take off, your hawk goes in for the catch and gets outmaneuvered. It is all good, though. The hawk will return for a small reward.
Falconry was once reserved and used as a grand noble status symbol for those in places such as Medieval Europe due to the number of resources needed for a successful hunt. Master Falconers were provided with a significant amount of money because the nobles did nothing along the training line. It was the Master of the Mews that found, trained, did the upkeep, and ensured the hawks were ready. Thus, creating the Sport of Kings.
Experiencing Falconry
A Beginner
Falconry is more than 4,000 years old, and with a stay at The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, you can experience this fantastic sport firsthand. What an excellent way for the family to spend quality time together.
Lessons with trained falcons and hawks go hand in hand as you soak up some history of Falconry. With a 90-minute beginner lesson, what better way to learn something new and exciting as you come together as a cohesive unit.
Have a large family, up to ten, do not worry. Private lessons for the group are available, as well as private demonstrations for up to 50. A private falconry lesson would make a fantastic family reunion activity or corporate retreat adventure.
While these incredible creatures are not housed on the grounds of The Greenbrier, the falcons can be found under five minutes away. There is transportation, and the outing leaves from the outdoor pool area, at Greenbrier Outfitters.
As with almost all activities The Greenbrier has to offer, following resort-style casual dress code is required for this experience. To fulfill this, sport shirts, jeans, and walking shorts are acceptable.
CONCLUSION
Falconry is alive and well in the United States. These incredible birds of prey are spectacular creatures, and having one land on your gloved hand, is truly a once in a lifetime experience. So, what are you waiting for? Come along today and learn about some outstanding explanation of the sport and meet a hawk or two up close and personal. Imagine the look of awe on your buddy’s face when you tell them what you did on your weekend excursion to West Virginia and The Greenbrier.