thai falcon falconry - All
Falconary in China. Mongolian men sell falcons in Beijing. China, circa 1900.
Falconry is a very ancient art. According to one version, it originated in Asia.
The homeland of falconry in China is considered to be the district of Akhchi Kezilesu-the Kyrgyz Autonomous Region of Xinjiang. One of the small ethnic groups of China, the Kyrgyz, who own falconry techniques and preserve the traditions of this art form, lives compactly in this area.
The earliest image of falconary is a bas–relief discovered on the territory of modern Turkey and dated to the 13th century BC. On it, a young man holds a falcon on one hand, and with the other holds a strap that goes to the bird's feet.
In the second century BC, the Chinese emperors used trained falcons to catch pheasants.
In the III century AD, falconry penetrated from China to Korea and Japan.
Already in the XI century AD, falconry in China and than in whole Asia developed as a form of culture. Genghis Khan (1155-1227) was a specialist, connoisseur and connoisseur of hunting birds. Falconry under him was closely connected with the army, which became invincible at that time. The tradition was continued by his grandson Kublai (1215-1294), who, according to the description of the famous traveler Marco Polo, went hunting with 10,000 falcons and 500 gyrfalcons.
Tamerlane (1336-1405) and his worst enemy Bayezid (1360-1403) were great experts in hunting with hunting birds, especially with Altai gyrfalcons, whose hunting yard was served by 6,000 falconers and 7,000 kennels. No European king could afford such a luxury. The role of falconry in the life of mankind is difficult to overestimate: falconry aesthetics, philosophy and strategy have influenced politics, science, literature, fine and military art, which has changed the culture of mankind as a whole.
November 16, 2010 Falconry is recognized by UNESCO as an object of the intangible cultural heritage of mankind.
Falconry was very popular in China and especially Manchuria, from which the Qin Dynasty originates. It was a sport for rich and noble people, the fun of the "golden youth".
What Is Falconry?
Falconry is an ancient form of hunting that harnesses the skill and precision of birds of prey—most notably falcons, hawks, and eagles. With roots tracing back thousands of years, this practice blends human expertise with the natural instincts of raptors, creating a mesmerizing synergy between predator and handler.
🌄 Morning Rituals and Training
The day begins at dawn, when falconers meticulously prepare their birds. Careful feeding routines and environmental awareness are key to ensuring a successful hunt. The relationship between falconer and bird is built on patience and trust, shaped through countless hours of dedicated training.
Once released into the open sky, the falcon showcases its breathtaking agility and speed, hunting its quarry with astonishing grace and precision.
🌍 Cultural Significance and Evolution
Falconry transcends mere sport—it’s a symbol of connection to nature and survival. Across regions and generations, different techniques and traditions have emerged, each reflecting the local culture and environment. From nomadic deserts to European woodlands, falconry’s evolution highlights its enduring relevance.
🌱 Conservation and Modern Value
In today’s world, falconry is more than just a thrilling heritage activity. It’s also a powerful tool for wildlife conservation, raising awareness about raptor species and promoting stewardship of their natural habitats. Practitioners often contribute to bird rehabilitation and conservation programs, reinforcing the ecological importance of this ancient art.
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