Falconry Equipment Explained: Jesses, Hoods, Gloves, and Telemetry Gear for Modern Falconers

Falconry Equipment Explained: Jesses, Hoods, Gloves, and Telemetry Gear for Modern Falconers Falconry is one of the oldest hunting traditions still practiced today, with roots stretching back over 4,000 years to ancient Mesopotamia. While the art of training birds of prey has evolved, the core falconry equipment—jesses, hoods, gloves, and telemetry gear—remains essential. Whether you’re flying a peregrine falcon, Harris hawk, or goshawk, understanding and maintaining your gear is critical for safety, control, and successful hunting. This article breaks down each component of falconry equipment, based on verified sources and field experience, with practical advice for training, care, and use. --- 🪢 Jesses: The Falconer’s Connection to the Bird Jesses are thin straps—traditionally made of leather—attached to the bird’s legs via anklets. They allow the falconer to handle, tether, and control the bird without restricting movement. Jesses are used during training, transport, and when the bird is perched. Types of Jesses • Mews Jesses: Longer, used when the bird is in the aviary. Typically without slits or buttons. • Flying Jesses: Shorter, with slits or buttons to prevent snagging during flight. • Field Jesses: Lightweight and minimalistic, designed for hunting scenarios. Modern jesses are often made from kangaroo leather due to its strength and flexibility. Synthetic alternatives like Biothane are gaining popularity for their resistance to moisture and wear. Care and Maintenance • Clean with saddle soap or leather cleaner. • Inspect for cracks, stiffness, or fraying. • Replace immediately if compromised—failure in the field can result in a lost bird. Jesses should be supple but strong. A stiff or cracked jess can injure the bird or fail during flight. --- 🦉 Hoods: Calm and Focus in the Field The hood is one of the most iconic pieces of falconry equipment. It covers the bird’s head, blocking visual stimuli and helping it remain calm during handling, transport, or waiting periods in the field. Common Hood Designs • Dutch Hood: Rigid, structured, with adjustable braces. Ideal for larger birds. • Anglo-Indian Hood: Lightweight, flexible, often used for falcons. • Arab Hood: Soft leather, simple pull-tab closure, popular in desert climates. Materials range from calfskin and kangaroo leather to synthetic suede. Custom hoods are often tailored to the bird’s species and head shape. Training and Fit • Introduce gradually during manning (initial taming). • A hood must fit snugly without pressure on the eyes or beak. • Never force the hood—this can cause long-term aversion. A well-fitted hood is essential. Poor fit leads to discomfort, stress, and refusal to wear. --- 🧤 Gloves: Protection and Perch Falconry gloves protect the falconer’s hand and arm from talons while providing a stable perch for the bird. They vary in length, thickness, and material depending on the species flown. Types of Gloves • Short Gauntlets: For small birds like kestrels. • Mid-Length Gloves: Suitable for Harris hawks and medium falcons. • Full Gauntlets: Required for eagles and large owls. Most gloves are made from cowhide, elk leather, or buffalo hide. Reinforced stitching and padded palms improve durability. Some gloves include D-rings for attaching leashes or swivels. Care Tips • Condition with leather balm to prevent drying and cracking. • Air dry after use; avoid soaking. • Inspect for punctures or wear before each flight. A damaged glove can compromise safety. Always check before handling your bird. --- 📡 Telemetry Gear: Tracking and Recovery Telemetry systems have transformed falconry by reducing bird loss and enabling longer, more confident flights. These systems include transmitters, receivers, and antennas—often GPS-enabled. Components • Transmitters: Mounted on the bird’s leg, tail, or back. Lightweight and weather-resistant. • Receivers: Handheld units that detect signals from the transmitter. • Antennas: Directional tools used to locate the bird. Mounting Options • Leg Mounts: Easy to attach, but may snag. • Tail Mounts: Aerodynamic, but risk loss if feather breaks. • Backpack Mounts: Secure and balanced, ideal for long flights. Modern telemetry systems use VHF radio or GPS. GPS units provide real-time data on location, altitude, and speed. Some models sync with mobile apps for enhanced tracking and data logging. Best Practices • Test before each flight. • Carry spare batteries. • Use in combination with lure training and visual observation. Telemetry is not a substitute for training—it’s a safety net. Birds should still respond to recall and lure. --- 🏹 Training with Falconry Equipment Training a bird of prey requires patience, consistency, and the right tools. Equipment plays a vital role in shaping behavior and building trust. Training Stages 1. Manning: Getting the bird accustomed to human presence and handling. 2. Creance Training: Using a long line to teach recall and flight control. 3. Free Flight: Gradual release with telemetry support. 4. Hunting: Introducing live quarry in controlled conditions. Jesses and leashes are used during early training to prevent escape. Hoods help manage overstimulation. Gloves provide a safe platform for feeding and perching. Telemetry enables longer flights and confidence in recovery. Tip: Keep sessions short and positive. End on a good note to reinforce trust. --- 🧪 Equipment Care and Maintenance Proper care extends the life of your gear and ensures safety in the field. • Leather items: Clean with saddle soap, condition monthly, store in breathable bags. • Telemetry: Check connections, update firmware, replace worn mounts. • Gloves: Air dry, avoid direct sunlight, inspect stitching. • Hoods: Brush out debris, reshape if needed, store on hood blocks. Routine inspection is non-negotiable. A failed jess, cracked glove, or dead transmitter can compromise the hunt or endanger the bird.