FLYING FOLKLORE
Training and Hunting with Birds of Prey
“What a bursting heart of gratitude and triumph as the ravening monster slowly paced down the arm with gripping steps and pounced upon his breakfast! The rest of the day was a glow of pleasure, a kind of still life in which the sun shone on the flowers with more than natural brilliance, giving them the high lights of porcelain.” - T.H White
Falconry Is an Ancient Sport, the true origin is unknown. Once documentation began, Falconry was practiced in Medieval Europe, Asia, The Middle East, and now in North America. Birds of Prey are raised, trained, and used to hunt, always with the option to return or not return to their handler. The spiritual aspect and culture behind falconry regardless of area or denomination has grown to create a everlasting relationship between birds of prey and man.
In Medieval Europe, The Aristocracy used Falconry as a sign of status. Birds of prey were considered a way to "expand their royal administration", often accompanied with lavish clothing, gifts, and falconry excursions. Falconer's wore distinctive clothing, used certain stances, and exchanged money between other groups of falconers and members of royalty within their aristocracy. Falconry across Europe was taught at a young age to royal family members, as it was an important aspect of being a true "gentleman".
In the Middle East - different animals have and still are commonly used as status symbols. Saker and Peregrine falcons are used in the Middle East, and due to current sanctions are at the highest population number ever. Growing popularity during the Babylonian period, falconry spread out through Islamic countries and is prevalent today as a past time representing the different heritages and cultures that have lived in the area. Falconry is seen as a symbol of their civilization, as the holy Koran includes a verse permitting using falconry as a hunting method.
Many different Asian countries and past civilizations have rich contributions and developments within the practice of falconry. Falconry in Asia combines many different significant aspects of different countries and cultures. Asian falconers commonly use eagles instead of hawks or falcons, but all have been present within their history. In China, historic remains of literature and art consider it a important symbol to the imperial family. Koreans used falconry among as a symbol among political and military power. In Japan, falconry was used as a public demonstration to intimidate others, accompanied by costumes and equipment. In Kazakhstan and surrounding areas, falconry has always been used as a symbol of equality amongst the country people. The Tribes that once occupied these areas put symbols of falconry on their cultural artifacts. Hunting with birds of prey was considered a necessity and important to natural protection.
North America see's the birth of Falconry much later on. A huge contribution is the arrival of many European settlers to different areas. Early settlers in North America worked to establish themselves, affecting the significant growth of falconry. Falconry is more present today in North America than it ever was in the history of civilization here. Native American tribes considered falcons as a sign of protection from evil spirits, brining luck and victory in warfare. Instead of utilizing them to hunt, they were more symbolic and respected among their cultural beliefs.