Originally Posted by
westtexducks
That is really cool that you are hunting with a falcon. I have always wanted to go with a guy who had one just to watch the bird in action. Did you train it yourself? I have seen a hawk catch a mouse but I think it would be cool to use a hawk to hunt with. By the way did I mention that it is cool to use a falcon to hunt with.
Thanks westtexducks,
Although falcons are also hunted (primarily used for feathered quarry), my bird is actually a Red-tail hawk (good for rabbits & squirrels). If you’re ever up in Montana you’re more that welcome to join us out hunting.
Also, I’m not sure where in Texas you’re located but there are quite a few very good falconers throughout the state & they’re always looking for someone to help flush rabbits & squirrels.
As far as training goes, I didn’t have to train her to hunt as she already instinctively knew all about that. I did however have to teach her to return to me when called, follow me as I flush game for her & wait on a kill for me to arrive. When hunting, my job is to find the squirrel & keep it in the tree while she chases it down. It’s similar to a hunter & hunting dog type of relationship accept in our case I’m the dog.