Falconry
Saker Falcons are the most commonly used raptor by Arab falconers. They are the most well suited falcon to Arab Falconry due to their adaptability to desert climates, resilience and their size in relation to the traditional quarry: the Houbara Bustard (Remple, 1993; Upton, 2002). Compared to Peregrines, Saker Falcons are less agile, less suited to aerial combat, but their willingness to engage in ground combat with their prey makes for a fierce and reliable hunter.
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| Saker Falcon being released as part of the Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Scheme © EAD | Releasing a Saker Falcon with a fitted satellite tag as part of the Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Scheme © EAD |
Nowadays Saker Falcons are used throughout the world as a celebrated hunting falcon. They are often hybridised with other species to achieve desirable characteristics and colour morphs.
References & further reading
Fox, N. Understanding the bird of prey. British Columbia: Hancock House.
Remple, D. and Gross, C. 1993. Falconry and birds of prey in the Gulf. Dubai: Motivate Publishing.
Upton, R. 2002. Arab falconry: history of a way of life. British Columbia: Hancock House.