[Picture: Qatar falcon hunting - The falcon is national bird of Qatar]
My morning inevitably started on a beautiful note, with Mae, telling me stories of Falcons and their fierce fighting skills - falconry the term used for the sport of falcon hunting is one of the most savored sports in the Gulf– it represents a passionate pastime and bond with predatory birds. Mae's passion and experience with the sport is captivating, making you want to be an instant Falconer however that's easier said than done - nonetheless its all so exciting hearing the stories and watching the videos of falcons clawing in on their targets at great speed, raising dust in its scoop.
It is an art and a skill that is one of its finest to watch against the Arabian desert backdrops and let me just say, its a very well-preserved and disciplined sport! I just love it!
The Arabian Peninsula is one of the last places in the world where falconry remains an important sporting activity. The people of the Gulf have a strong personal sentiment and commitment to falconry and ensure that it is practiced in the correct manner, with the proper respect due to Islamic laws. The sport originally started with nomadic Bedouins, who used these birds to hunt down meat due to its great sight ability in dusty terrain.
[In Dubai - a beautiful falcon pictured with his owner]
And never underestimate the importance of a Falcon – during hunting/sporting season, you will find these Falcons travelling with owners in first class on Gulf airlines, one notable airline is, Qatar Airways. Falcons don’t come cheap and neither does their care lack in anyway, enthused with daily attention and care from a Falconer who manages the Falcon’s training and needs
So next time you travelling first class, don’t be surprised if your travel companion turns out to be a Falcon
So next time you travelling first class, don’t be surprised if your travel companion turns out to be a Falcon