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Falconry Training: Techniques and Methods for Training Raptors
Falconry, the ancient art of hunting with birds of prey, demands a unique blend of patience, precision, and deep respect for the raptor. Training these apex predators is not a casual endeavor—it’s a disciplined craft rooted in centuries of tradition and refined through modern understanding of avian behavior. This article offers a comprehensive guide to falconry training, focusing exclusively on the techniques and methods used to train raptors, with practical insights for serious hunters and aspiring falconers.
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Understanding the Raptor: Species and Behavior
Before training begins, it’s essential to understand the species of raptor being handled. Falcons (longwings), hawks (shortwings), and eagles each have distinct temperaments and hunting styles. For example:
• Peregrine Falcons are high-speed aerial hunters, ideal for open terrain.
• Red-tailed Hawks are versatile and commonly used in North American falconry.
• Goshawks are powerful but notoriously temperamental, requiring experienced handlers.
Each species responds differently to stimuli, and training must be tailored accordingly. Raptors are not domesticated animals—they remain wild at heart. The goal of falconry training is not to tame but to build a working partnership based on trust and mutual benefit.
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⛓️💥 Essential Equipment for Training
Proper gear is critical for safety and control during training. Key items include:
• Hood: Keeps the bird calm during transport and early training phases.
• Jesses: Leather straps attached to the bird’s legs for handling.
• Creance: A long training line used during flight exercises.
• Glove: Protects the falconer’s hand and provides a perch.
• Lure: Simulates prey and is used to condition flight and recall.
• Telemetry: Radio tracking devices to locate birds during free flight.
Each piece of equipment must be fitted correctly and maintained meticulously. Ill-fitting gear can cause injury or rejection by the bird, derailing the training process.
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🧠 Phase 1: Manning – Building Trust
Manning is the foundational stage of falconry training. It involves acclimating the raptor to human presence and handling. This phase can take days or weeks depending on the bird’s temperament.
Techniques include:
• Frequent Handling: Holding the bird on the glove for extended periods.
• Voice Conditioning: Speaking softly to familiarize the bird with the falconer’s tone.
• Food Association: Offering food by hand to build positive reinforcement.
• Environmental Exposure: Gradually introducing the bird to new sights, sounds, and movements.
The goal is to reduce fear and stress, allowing the bird to remain calm and alert in the falconer’s presence. Manning is not rushed; a poorly manned bird will be unreliable and potentially dangerous in the field.
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🏋️ Phase 2: Weight Management and Conditioning
Raptors are trained at their optimal flying weight—known as “flying weight”—which ensures responsiveness without compromising health. This requires daily weighing and precise control of food intake.
• Weight Charting: Tracking weight fluctuations to determine ideal performance range.
• Diet Control: Feeding lean meats like quail or pigeon in measured portions.
• Flight Conditioning: Encouraging short flights to build stamina and muscle tone.
A bird that is too heavy may refuse to fly; too light, and it risks exhaustion or injury. Conditioning is a delicate balance that must be monitored rigorously.
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🪶 Phase 3: Creance Training – Controlled Flight
Once the bird is manned and conditioned, creance training begins. This involves tethered flight using a long line (creance) to teach recall and directional control.
Key methods:
• Short Flights to the Glove: Reinforcing return behavior with food rewards.
• Lure Training: Swinging a lure to simulate prey and encourage pursuit.
• Distance Extension: Gradually increasing flight distance to build confidence.
Creance training is where the bird begins to associate the falconer with successful hunting. Positive reinforcement is critical—punishment or frustration will damage trust.
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🐦 Phase 4: Free Flight and Hunting Preparation
Once reliable recall is established, the bird is allowed to fly free. This is the most critical phase, where the falconer must trust the bird’s instincts and training.
• Telemetry Use: Ensures the bird can be tracked if it flies out of range.
• Live Prey Introduction: Gradual exposure to live quarry under controlled conditions.
• Field Training: Practicing in varied terrain to simulate real hunting scenarios.
Free flight is not a test—it’s a demonstration of the bond between falconer and raptor. The bird must be confident, responsive, and physically prepared to hunt.
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🧼 Daily Care and Maintenance
Training is only part of falconry. Daily care ensures the bird remains healthy and responsive.
• Clean Mews: The bird’s housing must be secure, sanitary, and spacious.
• Bathing Opportunities: Raptors often bathe to maintain feather condition.
• Health Checks: Monitoring for signs of illness, parasites, or injury.
• Molting Management: Adjusting training during feather replacement periods.
A neglected bird will not perform. Falconry demands daily commitment, even outside the hunting season.
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🧭 Advanced Techniques and Innovations
Modern falconers are integrating technology to enhance training:
• Drone Training: Simulates aerial prey and improves flight conditioning B.
• High-Speed Lures: Used to build speed and agility.
• Behavioral Science: Applying operant conditioning and cognitive enrichment.
These innovations complement traditional methods, not replace them. The essence of falconry remains the same: a partnership built on trust, skill, and respect.
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🏹 Conclusion
Falconry training is a demanding but deeply rewarding pursuit. It requires more than technical skill—it demands empathy, observation, and unwavering dedication.
Arts & Craft ADIHEX 2025 — Part II (Addendum: Newly Added Exhibitors)
ADIHEX 2025 Arts & Craft sector review, including new additions.
Limited Gallery LLC (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion C4-06) Curatorial platform staging rotating exhibitions and facilitating institutional acquisitions.
Lmart.81 (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion P6-03) Retail concept offering small-batch crafts, homewares and event-appropriate merchandise.
Luxury Cady Perfumes (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion C4-04) High-end fragrance house producing signature scents for ceremonial and corporate use.
Majedah Aljarrah (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion 6-135) Contemporary artist producing installation work and limited-edition objects.
National Academy for Childhood Development (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion 4-060) Educational partner delivering craft workshops and youth engagement programming.
OAH Shop (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion C6-03) Retail curator of handmade gifts, artisan-produced souvenirs and small-form craft items.Pashmina Handicrafts Trading (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion 10-085)
Supplier of premium pashmina textiles and handcrafted equestrian accessories.
Pegasus Leaders Gifts Trading CO LLC (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion 2-072)
Provider of corporate gifting and presentation materials adapted for equestrian awards.
Qaser Al Dewaneyh For Omani Sweet (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion C11-09)
Specialist in traditional Omani confectionery and heritage food demonstrations.
Quanzhou Best Bags Co., Ltd (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion P11-05)
Manufacturer of durable transport bags and padded carriers suitable for tack and equipment.
Rabaa (Kuwait, Pavilion 7-122)
Regional artisan collective offering cultural crafts and show-presentation pieces.
Ramrod Outdoor Trading (South Africa, Pavilion 10-025)
Provider of outdoor and transport equipment, including rugged crates and field kits.
Rim Sehiri (Tunisia, Pavilion 6-105)
Artist and craft studio offering equine-themed ceramics and textile art.
Royal Enterprises (Pakistan, Pavilion C1-086)
Supplier of industrial-grade cold-chain and storage solutions for equine feed and pharma.
Rusmiti Calligraphers And Painters (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion 6-130)
Calligraphy and hand-painted decorative panels for ceremonial tack and awards.
Sachiyo Kaneko (Spain, Pavilion 6-155)
Studio offering handcrafted equestrian leatherwork and bespoke show accessories.
Sea and Deep Frame Making (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion P7-05)
Specialist in custom framing and display cases for trophies and heritage pieces.
Shani Enterprises (Pakistan, Pavilion 2-079)
Manufacturer of leather goods and field-ready equestrian apparel.
SKS Knives (Pakistan, Pavilion 2-081)
Producer of precision grooming and utility knives for yard and field use.
SKW Cafe (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion C4-02)
On-site hospitality provider offering refreshments for exhibitors and visitors.
Soul Collection (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion C12-22)
Curated collection of artisan-made accessories for equestrian lifestyle and gifting.
Stone Age (Armenia, Pavilion 2-062)
Crafts traditional stone and wooden tools, decorative items and archery accoutrements.
Taz Auto Accessories (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion P8-07)
Supplier of vehicle-mounted racks and secure transport solutions for horse trailers.
The SA Enterprises (Pakistan, Pavilion 2-067)
Exporter of arena equipment, marking tools and heavy-duty tow ropes.
Virk Industries (Pakistan, Pavilion 2-078)
Manufacturer of metal fittings and hardware used in stable construction and tack.
Waraq Line (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion 6-170)
Producer of traditional stationery and heritage paper products used for certificates and programmes.
Yas Beads Gifts and Collectibles (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion P10-18)
Retailer of handcrafted beads, medals and small collectibles suitable for prize-giving.
This two-part directory consolidates the Arts & Craft exhibitors for ADIHEX 2025 and integrates recent additions. Use this resource to plan meetings, commission bespoke pieces and secure procurement timelines during the ADIHEX event at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.
Arts & Craft ADIHEX 2025, Abu Dhabi: Hunting Expo Sector Information and Photo
The Arts & Craft sector at ADIHEX 2025 brings together master artisans, sculptors, perfumers and curators delivering handcrafted trophies, installations, textiles and heritage products. This two-part directory lists core exhibitors (Part I) and recent additions (Part II) to help buyers, curators and event teams plan meetings and commissions.
TICKETS and DATES: 30 August – 07 September 2025: https://www.adihex.com/
Arts & Craft ADIHEX 2025 — Part I (Core Exhibitors)
27December Housewares (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion 6-195)
Supplier of practical homeware and stable-friendly accessories tailored for event and hospitality use.
7 Ghaf Cafe (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion C1-03)
Mobile hospitality concept offering curated coffee experiences and event catering for expos and VIP zones.
A Stroke of Art (Bahrain, Pavilion 6-200)
Studio producing commissioned artworks and limited-edition pieces with hunting and equestrian themes.
Al Mohtraf Wood Factory (Qatar, Pavilion 7-065)
Workshop specialising in intricately carved wooden trophies, mounts and bespoke joinery.
Almzyonh (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion C12-21)
Curatorial supplier of traditional textiles and heritage-inspired interior elements.
Aloqiylat Trade Co (Saudi Arabia, Pavilions 10-205 & 10-170)
Leathercraft specialists offering handcrafted tack accents, ornamental straps and bespoke fittings.
AR Knives Industry (Pakistan, Pavilion C2-07)
Manufacturer of field-quality knives and artisan blades for collectors and practical use.
Art Amira (Tunisia, Pavilion 6-105)
Artisan brand presenting decorative saddle panels and small-scale equestrian sculptures.
Art By Lucinda (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion 6-175)
Fine-art practice offering portraits, installations and curated pieces for show and hospitality areas.
Artlance Consultancy (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion 6-160)
Curatorial and exhibition-design services for bespoke displays and branded art programs.
AS Blades (Pakistan, Pavilion 2-063)
Producer of professional grooming blades, shears and specialist tools for animal-care professionals.
Axent Advertising and Publicity LLC (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion 7-068)
Communications and sponsorship specialists delivering heritage-led publicity and event activation packages.
Ayah Al Heera (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion 7-075)
Digital heritage initiatives and archival storytelling projects tied to regional cultural narratives.
Born Sculptures (Netherlands, Pavilions 7-123 & 6-020)
Studio producing large-scale bronze and stone sculptures suitable for arenas, lobbies and commemorative installations.
Deepti Artworks (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion 6-055)
Commission-based mural and decorative-art studio focused on site-specific equine themes.
Dhad Language (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion P10-13)
Multilingual content and interpretation services for exhibition programmes and international delegations.
Dovile De Angelis (France, Pavilion 6-021)
Luxury leather and handcrafted equine accessories produced to European atelier standards.
Elite Horizon General Trading LLC (United Arab Emirates, Pavilions 10-215 & 10-190)
Provides logistical and infrastructure support for large-format displays and installation works.
Embroidered Cloth (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion C12-14)
Specialist in bespoke embroidery: saddlecloths, presentation banners and ceremonial textiles.
Emirates Arabian Horse Society (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion 12-035)
Institutional exhibitor promoting Arabian horse heritage through curated displays and educational content.
Empire Treasures LLC (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion P7-003)
Curator of ceremonial artifacts, trophies and collectible heritage items for institutional collections.
Erum Durrani (Pakistan, Pavilion 6-220)
Designer-focused collections marrying fashion sensibility with equestrian motifs for show and retail.
Evil Bull Knives (Pakistan, Pavilion 2-080)
Craftsman-maker of utility knives and presentation blades intended for collectors and field use.
Finest Art With Gemstones (Brazil, Pavilion P7-002)
High-end decorative pieces and jewel-set awards crafted for institutional recognition.
Gemstone (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion C3-13)
Manufacturer and engraver of trophy pieces and small-form gemstone artworks.
Glaza Collection Textile Trading (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion C5-04)
Supplier of woven fabrics, saddlecloths and textile components with custom finishing options.
Heaventh Secrets (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion 6-035)
Artisanal leather-care products and boutique craft items designed for premium aftercare and gifting.
Ibrahim Arts & OM3 (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion 6-040)
Collaborative multimedia studio producing installations and experiential assets for event spaces.
Inaayat Design Studio (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion 6-095)
Interior and product design studio specialising in bespoke furniture and display fittings.
Kahraman Dubai General Trading Co LLC (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion C5-16)
Distributor of curated show supplies, presentation materials and display textiles.
Kamal Al Yammahi (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion 6-125)
Traditional craftsman producing hand-finished decorative elements and artisanal accoutrements.
Kovalchuk Sculptures LLC (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion 4-079)
Studio delivering contemporary sculptural commissions for corporate and public collections.
Le Luxe Perfumes (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion C4-05)
Niche perfumery presenting bespoke fragrance concepts for VIP gifting and hospitality briefs.
Le odor Perfumes (United Arab Emirates, Pavilion C12-20)
Artisanal attar and oud specialists running live scent workshops and demonstration sessions.
