The art of falconry is an ancient method of hunting first developed in Mesopotamia about 2000 BC. The Union County Heritage Museum is hosting a program on falconry; on Saturday, April 13, 2024, 10 am– 12 pm, as Symeon Robbins, an avid Mississippi falconer, will talk about the centuries-old practice and all aspects of care, feeding, training and hunting with birds.
The Second Saturday program All About Birds will also feature local birding expert Jennie Davis presenting a program on Birding for Children.
Attendees will learn how to get into the sport and see a live hunting bird, to learn more about local birds, and there will be crafts for youth.
Hunting with birds is a regulated sport. In the United States, falconry is legal in all states except Hawaii, and in the District of Columbia. A falconer must have a state permit to practice the sport. Acquiring a falconry license in the United States requires an aspiring falconer to pass a written test, have equipment and facilities inspected, and serve a minimum of two years as an apprentice under a licensed falconer.
There are different species of raptors that can be used for hunting, so if you are interested in the sports here are starting points to ponder:
• Which bird do you want to begin with?
• What are you going to hunt for, and where are you going to hunt? Falconry kestrels hunt small birds, while the red-tailed hawk hunts ground quarry.
• Where are you going to house the bird?
• How are you going to transport the bird between the house and the hunt?
These programs are free and are presented as a part of the Museum Naturalist Program. The museum is located at 114 Cleveland Street, New Albany, MS 38652. For more information call 662-538-0014.
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