Falconry is an ancient sport, and one still practiced in mountainous cities like Colorado Springs and throughout the American West. For many, falconry is considered an art. In fact, this 4,000-year-old sport is the oldest field sport known to mankind!
The lush Colorado wilderness is home to hundreds of species, and our Colorado Springs falconry tour is one of few in the nation that is open to guests. With its open air and clear, blue skies, Colorado Springs is home to some of the most exciting falconry experiences to be found in the region.
Are you ready for your Colorado Springs falconry adventure? Read on to learn more about Broadmoor Outfitters’ falconry Experience and how you can begin your journey with these incredible birds of prey.
What is the sport of falconry?
Falconry, commonly referred to as “the sport of kings”, relies on large birds of prey for hunting quarry. It is a sport that requires a great deal of dedication and patience, as well as an ongoing commitment to raise and care for a bird of prey. Birds must be looked after daily over a period of years, given fresh water and quality food in order to thrive. Being a falconer can mean 7-10 training sessions per week! No small undertaking, falconers also weigh birds daily to ensure it maintains good health and strong hunting capabilities.
What do I need to do to begin falconry?
Falconry is a strongly regulated sport and therefore subject to federal and state regulations. Falconers must undergo a long training process before earning certification, which can take months or perhaps even years. This process is often divided into stages.
Broadmoor Outfitters offers a beginner’s falconry experience, The Falconry Academy, which is designed for children (aged 5 and up) and adults of all ages. You’ll begin the day with an informative session that sees one of our falconers guide you through different species of birds of prey, which include Saker falcons, Harris hawks, and even a majestic Eurasian Eagle owl. This fascinating 90-minute course will teach you about the basics of falconry, after which you’ll venture outdoors for a demonstration. Here, you’ll watch one of our falconers in action, and even have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to don the falconer’s glove and pose with one of the birds, complete with a beautiful, mountainous backdrop behind you!
Once this course has been completed, guests have the option of signing up for an intermediate course so the learning can continue. During our intermediate course, guests will have the opportunity to release the bird, cast the bird, and have the bird return to them. This thrilling experience is not to be missed!
Our Colorado Springs falconry experience is one of Broadmoor Outfitters’ most exciting offerings, but there is plenty more in store for guests hoping for adventure. Whether you are hoping to experience falconry, mountain biking, paintball, or zip-lining, Broadmoor Outfitters has you covered. Call us to book your next Colorado Springs outdoor tour today!