Falconry

At Knitwire we have a wide variety of customers; some of these include falconers. Falconry is defined as ‘the taking of quarry in its natural state and habitat by means of trained birds of prey’ (definition from the International Association for Falconry and Conservation of Birds of Prey). It is also recognised by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. In comparison to other forms of hunting, falconry is a very low impact but effective means of providing food for both the falconer and hawk.

Falconry was previously known as the sport of the kings, however modern day falconry is accessible to anyone with the time and dedication to spend learning the art. Falconry is not a typical “hobby” but is more of a lifestyle. With many falconry birds living several decades, it is imperative the wannabee falconer does their homework and preparation in advance to ensure the lifestyle will suit such a commitment.

Before ever considering purchasing a hawk, we strongly recommend contacting one of the many falconry clubs to learn as much about falconry and gain as much guidance to help you decide how best (if at all) to enter this magnificent art.

See UK national clubs here:

https://www.britishfalconersclub.co.uk/New_Site/

https://welshhawkingclub.org/

http://www.irishhawkingclub.ie/

https://femalefalconersclub.co.uk/

Conservation

Who is better to work with injured raptors or on raptor conservation projects than falconers?  Falconers have many advantages when it comes to rehabilitating wild raptors with correct handling techniques, excellent veterinary care, appropriate diets and falconry-based fitness training that best prepare wild raptors for survival once released back to the wild. Working directly with captive birds of prey allows falconers to understand much more about their wild counterparts. This includes general behaviour, hunting abilities, breeding patterns and the environment they live in.

For more information on raptor conservation by falconers click here:-

Falconry hawk
Rehabilitation, one falconer and a kestrel.
Falconry chicks
Rehabbing wild goshawks in Australia - Using techniques shared by falconers worldwide.
Project Lugger

Bird Deterrent

Using trained raptors for bird deterrent offers an effective but non-lethal method of removing pest birds from a site. The concept works on the basis that the ‘pest’ species will view the hawk or falcon as a threat, deterring them from wanting to be in the area.  This can be very beneficial in places where bird proofing methods are not appropriate, such as on listed buildings. 

We found some interesting articles on the benefits of using raptors for a variety of bird deterrent work:

Falconry Hawk

Education

Trained raptors also make fantastic ambassadors for conservation and the natural environment. This is a great means for engaging children and adults alike on conservation threats and how to protect the natural habitats where these majestic birds are found. What better way to inspire the next generation of conservationist and environmentalist than bringing the natural world into the classroom? The UK has a number of prestige falconry centre’s open to the public which make for an excellent educational family day out.

National Centre for Birds of Prey

The International Centre for Birds of Prey

Falconry show

To find out more about Falconry, click here:

Advantages of ClearMesh for Raptors

Many of our clients include falconers. Falconry birds (known as hawks) may be housed in a number of different ways depending upon size and species of hawk, as well as time of year. Hawks being flown are traditionally tethered to perches during the day in a weathering and housed in a mews at night (or when moulting). Breeding birds may be kept in aviaries.

row of wooden aviaries

Traditionally mesh is often thought of as not being a good material for housing falconry birds, due to its potential to damage feet and feathers. As such many falconers opt to use barred windows for the larger and more highly strung species of raptors. However, our mesh has been designed and developed to be different making it highly suitable for a variety of bird of prey species. Our mesh is kind to both feet and feathers whilst also allowing for easy viewing of your raptor. It can also be used in conjunction with bars for increased biosecurity and against pest. It is perfect for surrounding weathering’s, providing both a safe and pest proof area for your hawk to weather, whilst allowing easy visual observation of the hawk (and helps compliance with the avian influenza directive by keeping wild birds separate from your hawk).

Harris Hawk on Perch