Falconry Field Meet in Spain

In the sport of falconry there are competitions called sky trials. In a sky trial falconers fly their birds as though they were hunting, but in a controlled environment. The falcons are judged on their style of flight. Meaning, how high they fly, how fast they stoop (dive), and how they pursue their quarry or prey all within a time limit. Sky trials are more like falconers getting together to showcase how well their birds are flying and hunting in a natural environment rather than an actual competition. Sky trials usually last 2-3 days with flights every day. There are usually vendors selling falconry related equipment and various lectures. Sky trials originated in the United States. It then spread to certain parts of Europe, such as Spain. They chose to have their first sky trial in Leon Spain where there is a history of falconry. I just returned home from Leon where I was honored to lecture at the 20th Anniversary of their falconry meet and sky trials. It was 3 days of great flights, great people and friendly competition. I spoke on the 2nd night of the competition about hunting and the styles of falcon training that I practice in the US. Training and hunting is different in the United States than in other countries. We have much more open space and have access to public lands with wild game to hunt.

Having fun with a fellow falconer

Presenting in Spain about falcon hacking in the U.S.

Some falcon hacking equipment[/caption]