We take great care not to exceed a ratio of 4 participants to a trainer at any one time.

Fees: Adults £70.00 Child £50.00 (10-16 inclusive) Double course £120 & £90.00 respectively

1. Basic Hawk Handling: An "hands on" introduction to the art of falconry. After a short history of the sport we move on to the legalities of owning and flying a bird of prey, before discussing the advantages of the various types and species used. Practical work commences with the use and fitting of the different items of basic equipment. You will learn how to safely pick up a hawk, carry it and replace it securely. With this mastered it is time to move on to the early stages of training the bird of prey to come to the gloved fist. This progresses through "manning", to short flights on a line, up to and including free flight.

This is our most popular course and allows the complete novice to achieve a degree of familiarity and confidence when handling our hawks and falcons. No experience is necessary and, by arrangement, we can focus on handling owls if this is required. The module is a first step on the ladder for would be falconers and a fun experience for those who have no wish to become falconers but would enjoy spending time with them.

2. Advanced Hawk Handling: Moves away from the classroom and out to the open country. This module covers the preparation and practice of free-flying a hawk and is recommended before you contemplate going hawking with us or, more seriously, getting a hawk of your own.  The vital matter of  weight management and recording starts the session and you will learn how to transport the hawk safely and comfortably, how to equip it for the hunting field and how to use tracking equipment.

You will see the hawk working with trained dogs and practice calling it back and getting it to follow. At the end of the session you will replace its day-to-day equipment and carry out the various health checks and recording that is part of the falconer's responsibilities.

Taken with Basic Hawk Handling the two modules can make a great day's experience.

3. Hawk Management: This is largely a theoretical course for those who are intending to obtain their own hawk. Covers every aspect of housing and feeding, including the design of your own facilities. We teach you what to look for when carrying out routine health checks and how to perform the basic routines that arise. You will repair broken feathers and learn to "cope" (trim claws and beaks).  A very necessary aspect is how to securely restrain the hawk for treatment or
examination.

4.  Fieldcraft: Falconry and hawking are about catching game with birds of prey. This module prepares the novice hawker for his or her early hunting trips. Apart from the control of the hawk's weight we introduce the legal requirements, ethical considerations and public relations elements. Then we move on to the various categories of quarry with their advantages and disadvantages. Hunting techniques include use of wind and contours, strategies and the natural and man-made hazards of the countryside. The important skills of despatching caught game are covered and the process of removing it from the successful bird.

In the winter months (October-January inclusive) this course can be taken in the morning, and a half day out with the hunting hawks can be added after lunch to make a truly memorable day.

5. Lure-work: Designed for those intending (or already trying) to fly a falcon to the lure. Flying a falcon to a swung lure is hazardous for the bird if the falconer is inexperienced. By using a simulated bird we are able to teach you the basic lure swinging techniques, the various "passes" and how to present the lure to the falcon. T

Theory covers the use of the lure to develop the bird's fitness and obedience and its use in the hunting field. You will practice bribing the falcon from a lure as you would relieve it of its kill in the field. The proficient student may be allowed to try flying a display falcon to the lure.

To arrange a course or purchase a gift voucher telephone 01789 415437 or
e-mail stevewright.falconer@virgin.net

No experience is necessary and we offer gift vouchers for an unusual and original present, allowing the person to arrange their own day to suit themselves.

Where to find us

Our courses are run at the Shakespeare Countryside Museum based at Mary Arden's House, the home of Shakespeare's mother. This popular tourist venue is beautifully presented and offers a most rewarding visit. It is situated in the middle of the village of Wilmcote, which is clearly signposted off the main Stratford-upon-Avon to Birmingham road (A3400) about 2 miles north of the junction of the A3400 and the A46. Visit www.shakespeare.co.uk.

Will I have to pay to enter Mary Arden's House?
No, as long as you bring your gift voucher with you and present it at the ticket office. Any friends or family accompanying you will need to pay the full admission price, entitling them to enjoy all the facilities while you are doing your course. Your friends are welcome to take photographs of your course.

What time do the courses start?
We commence the courses at 10.00 and they run through until about 13.30. If you are taking a double course we stop for a half hour break (there are two good pubs in the village) and will normally finish about 17.00.