Winter 2006 WingBeat Page 5

Falconry Outing Builds Bridges For Burroughs Audubon Society (BAS)

 

On December 10, seven adventurous birders joined Bob Payne and Norma Haynes of the Missouri Falconers’ Association for our first falconry field trip at a public hunting area at Smithville Lake. Bob introduced us to his Harris’ Hawk,“George”, and his young Northern Goshawk. We tramped up and down the snowy hills and brushy ravines as Bob’s Jack Russell terriers scoured the bushes for rabbits and George flew majestically from treetop to treetop,watching for movement below. When flying free, each hawk is equipped with a lightweight telemetry device on a leg so that the hawk can be tracked if it becomes separated from its handler.Two rabbits were flushed, but both managed to elude George’s determined dives! In the second half of the outing, a German Wirehair Pointer was employed to locate quail to be taken by the goshawk. None appeared, but the bird took the opportunity to learn to watch and follow the dog closely, and returned to Bob when summoned (encouraged by fresh meat snacks).

 

 Most birders never have the chance to witness the hunting prowess of raptors so closely, or to appreciate the knowledge, patience, and dedication of falconers such as Bob and Norma in the care and training of their birds.

Two groups which may seem to be worlds apart share a common passion: a love of birds, wildlife and the preservation of the open spaces they require to live their lives to the fullest. Many thanks, Bob and Norma!

 

--Elizabeth Stoakes
Lee’s Summit, MO