Falconry is, for me, a way of life—a livity—and a bond that symbolizes true harmony with nature. It is an unconditional relationship in which both the hunter and the bird of prey, while not needing each other to survive, work together toward a common goal. The practice of falconry is one of the greatest reflections of conservationism, as it compels you to look within yourself and discover how you can improve and align yourself with the animal you are working with, ensuring that both you and the bird are fulfilled during the season.

As the seasons change, you grow as an individual, and you witness your bird of prey transform as it molts into its adult feathers. This process sheds old practices and habits, allowing both you and the bird to adopt a new lifestyle. Falconry teaches you to appreciate nature and its seasonal cycles because there are natural laws that govern each season; you cannot fight against them or ignore them, leaving you with no choice but to respect them.

In essence, to be a falconer is to uncover a new version of yourself, just as your bird of prey becomes stronger and is eventually released back into the wild, equipped with a better chance of living a fulfilling life—thanks to the beautiful relationship that was built in a world that can often be harsh.

Troy Trevon Linton Mckalla, Falconry