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Castle Falconry, providing a unique falconry experience in the
Highlands.
Falconry traces its origins back several thousand years and has
been the passion of some of the most influential people in history.
Aristocratic and romantic, this ancient sport has retained its mystique
right up to the present day and few images are as powerful as a
trained hawk sitting sharp eyed on a gloved fist.
To watch a falconer's hawk in action can be thrilling, but to get
out into the countryside and fly such a bird yourself is an experience
without equal; the feel of the hawk riding your hand and the excitement
as it launches into flight makes for a spellbinding encounter.
At Castle Falconry your first taste of falconry will be unforgettable.
Leading the team is internationally acclaimed falconer and dog trainer
Andy Hughes who has personally trained over 70 various birds of
prey during the last 28 years, including Eagles, Falcons, Hawks
and Owls.
Under his guidance you are guaranteed to get the very most of your
outing. Groups are kept small and this ensures plenty of involvement,
at the same time promoting a friendly, informal atmosphere. A period
of instruction will help you feel comfortable around hawks and teach
you some basic handling skills. Then it's off into the surrounding
countryside to put theory into practice.
Duration approx. 2 hours. All specialized equipment is provided.
However do not forget your camera, warm clothing and strong footwear
is recommended. Refreshments are provided.
Superb flying demonstrations take place within the castle gardens
and include at lease six different birds of prey: Harris Hawks,
Peregrine Falcons, Buzzards, Bengal Eagle Owls and Barn Owls.
This is great fun and a real hands on experience and we do encourage
audience participation with the hawks and owls free flying. Don't
forget your camera because the antics of the birds are quite spectacular.
They also provide a two-day introductory Falconry course for those
people with no experience in this ancient and noble practice. The
course is held at Dunrobin Castle and begins at 10.30, with lunch
in the Castle and normally finishes at 16.00. The courses are available
from 1st April to 15th October.
To further your knowledge of these beautiful animals, they provide
lectures of approximately one hours duration. The lecture includes
such topics as the role that falconry plays in conservation, its
place in history and today's present position of the art of falconry.
Towards the end of the lecture some of our Hawks and Owls will free
fly offering you the opportunity to "hands on" when possible
- an unforgettable experience.
Dunrobin, Golspie, Sutherland KW10 6SF
Tel: +44 (0)1408 633699
E-mail: falconry@highlandescape.com
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Introduction
