The sport of falconry is very ancient, having been practiced for over three thousand years, beginning in Persia and China. Falconers to
day have been instrumental in increasing public awareness of endangered species. Falconers, for example, have raised and reintroduced the peregrine falcon to the environment. Peregrine falcons became endangered nationally and at one time were extinct east of the Mississippi River after the unregulated use of DDT had caused their decline. The peregrine in particular is the fastest bird on earth, sometimes exceeding 200 miles per hour in a dive after its prey.
The bond between bird and falconer is a marvel. Hunting is cooperation, they combine their efforts in the hunt, and often with a third member—a dog. Several species of hawks and falcons are used in falconry, each with its own instincts for hunting. The red-tailed hawk sits high on a perch as the falconer jumps or flushes game. The peregrine hovers overhead, waiting and watching, while the goshawk springs to flight from the falconer’s arm.
It takes years of being an apprentice under a licensed master falconer to become one yourself. Today a few dedicated
individuals spend countless hours raising and training their birds to practice this ancient sport. One is Joe Katterhenry of Newburgh, Indiana. Katterhenry—a licensed master falconer himself—has as his apprentice Mark Hermann of Grandview, Indiana.
Come out to view a rare, live demonstration of falconry in the hills of 18th Street Park and learn more about this fascinating subject.
The Falconry Demonstration will take place from 12 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. at Sled Run Hill. There will be a directional sign along a path just to the southwest of the basketball court.