Falconry in Britain is still amazingly popular. But the most astonishing thing, in this PC age, is that UNESCO recognizes falconry as important, intangible, cultural heritage in several countries. NJS
By the way, the Victorian game keepers flew black kites to simulate hovering raptors. They served to keep the grouse to ground in the days before driven shoots when birds were pointed by dogs. Very clever technique.
I'm not sure that I have a side as such but these are territorial birds and a pair isn't going to do that much damage, surely. A peregrine in the stoop is one of the wonders of nature. Still, those who live by the sword...
Thank you for this one, my friend!
ReplyDeleteFalconry in Britain is still amazingly popular. But the most astonishing thing, in this PC age, is that UNESCO recognizes falconry as important, intangible, cultural heritage in several countries.
ReplyDeleteNJS
Up on the moors the falcon is not admired by the keepers.
ReplyDeleteBy the way, the Victorian game keepers flew black kites to simulate hovering raptors. They served to keep the grouse to ground in the days before driven shoots when birds were pointed by dogs. Very clever technique.
ReplyDeleteMichael - the wild populations of the the peregrine (and the osprey too) were decimated by keepers (and ghillies) but they're increasing again.
ReplyDeleteNJS. I am afraid i am on the side of the grouse and the salmon in this controversy.
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure that I have a side as such but these are territorial birds and a pair isn't going to do that much damage, surely. A peregrine in the stoop is one of the wonders of nature. Still, those who live by the sword...
ReplyDelete