Birds of Prey

by
posted on February 8, 2016
main-1.jpg

A murmur of “oohs” and “awes” could be heard as I approached the Raptors Up Close stand. Visitors know they will see these birds in action this afternoon, but seeing them this close is almost just as exciting.

Four birds in the background sit calmly, preparing for their upcoming show in the Small Arena here at Great American Outdoor Show. The Red-tailed Hawk, however, is swaying back and forth, seeming to be anxious about the first wave of viewers. Then there’s the bird that generated the most attention out of the six while at the Raptors Up Close stand—the screeched owl. While the five larger birds perched on a horizontal bar a few feet behind the stand’s table, the screech owl was actually on the table and much closer to visitors. So close that myself, and those around me, wondered, “Is this real?” Yet after it fluidly swiveled its little head, revealing one missing eye, there was no doubt that the screeched owl was not only real but very much aware of everyone around.

The Caldwells, the family who runs Raptors Up Close, were incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. “My husband and son are both expert falconers,” Mrs. Caldwell said, motioning to her husband who was behind me. “We do about 35 shows a year around the U.S.,” Howard Caldwell added.

Shirts available to purchase at the Raptors Up Close booth.

Later that afternoon the Birds of Prey show demonstrated the agility, strength and intelligence of these raptors. Crowds sauntered in to watch the much anticipated event at GAOS.

Jason and his female barn owl.

Jason Caldwell, the expert falconer son Mrs. Caldwell mentioned earlier, was conducting the Birds of Prey show. Before he brought out the main events, Jason discussed the laws surrounding birds of prey and falconry. The steps, classes and permits audience members need to take and acquire to become an expert falconer, or even how to run one’s own rapture sanctuary.

He covered the history of falconry. “For more than 4,700 years humans have been using falcons to hunt, and at times fight,” Jason said.  “Today falcon hunting is legal in every state except Hawaii,” he added.

As Jason discussed working and training with the different birds of prey, he wanted to make one thing clear about owls. “Who ever said ‘wise old owl’ never trained one,” Jason mussed. “It took me weeks to get the owl to realize the perch was there for him.”

He then dove right in with audience participation. Asking specific questions about each type of bird he was about to bring out; an eagle, hawk, falcon and owl. To my surprise, an answer was shouted out almost every time he asked a question. Then every time that answer was correct!

Beginning with a beautiful female barn owl, Jason brought out every raptor Raptors Up Close brought to GAOS. They each had their own personality, and it was a treat to see such a rare bond between these birds of prey and a human.

If you’re here at GAOS this year, be sure to make the hour long show in the Small Arena. If you’re planning on coming another year, plan on watching the Birds of Prey show.

Latest

AC30BOB
AC30BOB

First Impressions: Savage AC30 B.O.B. (Back Over Barrel) Suppressor

This latest addition to Savage's AccuCan line of silencers was created to enhance the balance of your long gun.

Watch: Things You May Not Know About Suppressors

America's 1st Freedom Editor in Chief Frank Miniter discusses some interesting facts about silencers with an ear, nose, and throat doctor.

First Impressions: Magpul Breach Glove 2.0

Shooting gloves aren't just for law enforcement! Proper handwear can enhance any shooter's experience on the range.

Tend Your Freedom With Us: NRA-ILA Grassroots "NRA and You" Seminar

Your NRA is here to help you plant and nurture the grassroots support that keeps the Second Amendment healthy!

Video Review: Winchester .21 Sharp Cartridge

It's not a magnum rimfire, nor is it a rebooted .17 HMR ... it's the .22 LR's brilliant little brother.

How to Read a Ballistics Table

Don't be intimidated! All the work has been done for you.

Interests



Get the best of NRA Family delivered to your inbox.