Falconers and Forests

Can we link the two?

Simplistically:

Falconers are interested in hawks and these may live in forests

Possibly:

Falconers may hunt in or out of forests

But – Is there a more serious link?

What is Falconry?

Falconry is the hunting of wild quarry, in the natural environment, with a trained hawk

It is a hunting art.It is also an

Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognized by UNESCO

What does falconry involve?

Involves:The development of

an cooperative relationship between falconer and a fit, free-flying raptor,

An intimate knowledge of raptor behaviour as well as the quarry species and the environment,

Acute observation skills.

What does this mean?

Every falconer becomes involved in conservation at some level,

Has a deep concern for biodiversity and the environment

Can serve conservation though fulfilling a “sentinel” role within the environment.

The IAF represents falconers on a global level and addresses current conservation issues

Wildlife crime is currently a major global concern.

The IAF is taking steps to address this on behalf of the global falconry community.

The Portal to Develop Trust

First of the Flagship Projects of the Saker Global Action Plan of CMS

Internet portal to contact falconers, trappers and falcon hospitals in Russian, Arabic, Farsi and Pashtu,

To open dialogue, measure trade and change attitudes and behaviour.

Funded and jointly managed by the IAF.

Over 1000 contacts since April launch.

Proposed Registry and Studbook

Establish a voluntary global register of raptor breeders.

Develop a studbook for species and sub-species.

Provide pedigrees for individual birds.

Establish DNA banks for targeted species and subspecies.

Will need the support of international and national authorities.

Electrocution – the Silent Epidemic?

Uncovered by falconers undertaking research in Mongolia.

Data suggests the electrocution of huge numbers of Saker falcons and other raptors across the Eurasian steppes.

Developing a proposal for a Resolution at the 2016 IUCN World Conference.

Is the link – Conservation and Sustainable Use?Thank You.