Falconry Displays

Archive for November, 2019

I have been enjoying a quiet time at home – a gentle murmur of activity. I have made a new hood using a Phillip Glasier pattern. Hoods if looked after properly can last a long time and falconers are loathe to change a hood that a falcon has grown into. Sooner or later they can become dilapidated or are lost – refurbishment is possible changing the braces or plume but eventually the hood itself will need replacing. Every hood is different even from the same pattern – the leather type and stitching can effect the outcome – practice makes perfect so it is more difficult for the occasional hood maker. The modern professional hood maker is in a different class in terms of finish and fit. However it is nice to make one own hoods its part of the art and practice of falconry………………..

It is going to be cold tonight and the birds of lofted so they can roost comfortably – this is the modern way though it does not suit all birds in flying condition and so is not prescriptive.

Anyhow I sign off with a picture of our peregrine ‘Sprite’ taken this morning on our rugby ground by a local photographer. You can see how stocky the peregrine is – he does look great though so thanks Paul.

We are heading into our quiet time of year regarding displays but keep a small team of birds of prey flying for our country hotel bookings.  It is an enjoyable time of year – apart from the short days – watching autumn drift into winter and then of course at some point the arrival of spring.  I wanted to include a photo of our new falcon ‘Frank’ who has now gone into an aviary for the winter to harden off – very important for first tear falcons. I look forward to continuing his training in the spring. So no photo at the moment. However our Peregrine Falcon ‘Sprite’ is flying again and I include a picture of him from today. He looks very smart having just finished his moult and I am looking forward to see how he gets on this winter.