Falconry, the ancient art of hunting with trained birds of prey, is a pursuit deeply rooted in tradition and meticulous practice. At its heart lies the profound partnership between human and raptor. While the magnificent bird is undoubtedly the star, the success, safety, and well-being of this partnership hinge significantly on the specialized array of tools a falconer employs. It’s not just about having a few accessories; every item in a falconer’s kit has a precise purpose, vital for training, management, and ensuring the bird’s health and safety.
Understanding the “why” behind each piece of falconry supplies and equipment is crucial for anyone interested in this unique and demanding sport. These tools are extensions of the falconer’s hand and mind, enabling communication and control in the wild.
The Leash System: Jesses, Swivels, and Leashes
The most fundamental pieces of falconry equipment are those that keep the bird securely attached to the falconer. This system starts with jesses, which are soft leather or synthetic straps attached to each of the bird’s legs. These are designed to be comfortable for the bird while providing a secure hold.
The jesses then connect to a swivel, a small, rotating device that prevents the leash from twisting and tangling, crucial for the bird’s safety and comfort. Finally, a leash attaches to the swivel, allowing the falconer to hold the bird securely on the fist or a perch. These seemingly simple items are paramount for preventing escapes and managing the bird when it’s not free-flying.
The Hood: More Than a Simple Blindfold
A falconry hood is one of the most iconic and often misunderstood pieces of equipment. It’s a custom-fitted leather cap placed over the bird’s head, designed to cover its eyes completely. The hood isn’t used for punishment; instead, it serves a vital role in calming the bird.
By blocking visual stimuli, the hood helps to reduce stress, prevent agitation, and conserve the bird’s energy, especially during transport or when it’s waiting patiently before a flight. An expertly crafted and properly fitted hood is essential to ensure comfort, prevent injury to the eyes, and achieve the desired calming effect.
Perches and Stands: Creating Safe Resting Spots
A raptor spends a significant amount of its time resting, and the type of perch it uses is critical for its foot health and overall well-being. Different types of perches are designed for specific needs and bird species.
- Block perches are commonly used for falcons, providing a flat, wide surface.
- Bow perches are often preferred for hawks, offering a rounded surface.
- Screen perches or specialized mews furniture provide comfortable resting areas within an aviary.
Properly designed perches prevent pressure sores on the bird’s feet (a condition known as bumblefoot) and allow the bird to maintain a natural, relaxed posture. They are essential for both daily living and long-term health management of the bird.
Telemetry Systems: The Modern Tracker’s Advantage
In modern falconry, telemetry has revolutionized the sport, ensuring bird safety and significantly aiding in recovery. This system consists of a small, lightweight transmitter attached to the bird (often on a tail feather or leg) and a receiver held by the falconer.
If a bird flies out of sight during a hunt or training session, the telemetry system allows the falconer to track its location using radio signals. This technology is indispensable for preventing lost birds, especially when hunting in dense cover or when a bird might drift far downwind. It offers invaluable peace of mind to the falconer.
Scales and Lures: Precision in Management and Training
Two other critical items in the falconer’s toolkit are scales and lures. A precise scale is used daily to monitor the bird’s weight. A raptor’s hunting drive and health are directly tied to its weight, and even small fluctuations can indicate changes in health or readiness for training. This meticulous weighing ensures the bird is at its optimal flying weight.
The lure is a weighted object, often adorned with wings or bait, that the falconer swings to encourage the bird to return. It’s a vital training tool for conditioning, building strong recall, and exercising the bird. The lure is fundamental for both daily exercise routines and for ensuring the bird associates return with a positive reward.
Conclusion: A Symphony of Tools for a Unique Partnership
The array of falconry supplies and equipment, from the humble jess to the sophisticated telemetry system, forms a symphony of tools. Each piece serves a precise and indispensable purpose, directly contributing to the safety, training, and well-being of the raptor, as well as the success and enjoyment of the falconer. Investing in high-quality gear is not merely a choice; it is a fundamental commitment to responsible practice, allowing this ancient art to thrive safely and effectively in the modern world.
