Falconry Day

Date: 10 April 2011 08:31:13

Yesterday The Mister and I went to The Falconry Centre in Thirsk where we did an experience day. My parents paid for The Mister to go for his 30th birthday present and we decided to pay for me to go to.

It was brilliant!

We spent the whole day there and started out by walking around all the eagles, hawks and vultures and being introduced to them. Then we started off flying some of the smaller birds before learning to tie some essential knots and going o a hawk walk through the lanes. It was brilliant seeing the bird flying out in the countryside. We watched one of the flying days before having lunch. Then we flew a few more birds, watched the final display and then got to fly the bigger birds, including a Golden Eagle.

The staff member who took us out for the day ws so knowledgeable about birds and was fascinating to listen to, although he told appalling jokes.

I have to admit that I was a little bit nervous of the birds. When you see them up close they are even more beautiful but they have these massive sharp talons and a pokey pointed beak. I seriously wouldn't fancy getting attacked by one of these birds.

To top it all we had the most glorious day - warm and sunny and perfect although both of us have rather shiney sunburnt noses this morning,

The highlight of the day for me? Well, there were two. Getting up close to Misty the Grey Owl who is absolutely beautiful and looked like a cartoon owl he was so perfect. Secondly, getting to fly Boris the Golden Eagle - he was truly the only bird that made me properly nervous - he kind of looked at me funny, but he was awesome. So beautiful and powerful. Gorgeous.

So, this was a day well worth doing. Not cheap, but you certainly get your money's worth. We had a fab time. Thanks Mum and Dad!!!

Here are some pics... there are over 300 on Flickr, so if you want to see more then just click through...