Remembering

It has been too long since I’ve been able to commit the necessary time to the practice of falconry, and also since I’ve shared the falconry experience with friends. This past week corrected some of that.

It was great to attend the annual Spring Rendezvous at the Archives of Falconry in Boise, Idaho. The primary reason for going was the celebration of lives of falconers who have passed. In particular, my good friend Jim Ruos was added the  Wall of remembrance this year. The Rendezvous had not been held the past couple years due to Covid limitations. As a result, and sadly, some 40 names were added to the wall this year.

In addition, several presentations by experts on the history and practice of the sport were enjoyed. And, most especially enjoyed was the opportunity to reconnect with friends in the raptor world, some of whom I hadn’t seen in over 40years. Hopefully we’ll all do a better job of staying in touch now.

The Archives have been newly expanded and is a remarkably professional facility housing papers, art, books, data and artifacts relating to falconry around the world. There is beautiful informational and art displays.  Adjacent to the Archives is the Peregrine Funds World Center for Birds of Prey which works to prevent extinction, protect critical habitats and educate on the roles and importance of raptors around the world.  Many species are on display, and guided tours explain the life histories and characteristics of these remarkable birds.