This comprehensive course offers an in-depth look into the world of birds of prey, covering their species, care, management, and handling. It's perfect for beginners, those interested in keeping birds of prey, or experienced falconers looking to enhance their skills and earn a recognized award. Our extensive collection of birds allows us to share our passion and expertise with fellow enthusiasts.

Course Overview:

• Bird of Prey Management: Learn about the care and management of these magnificent creatures.
• Safety: Understand safety protocols for both the bird and the falconer.
• Creance Line Use: Master the use of a creance line.
• Falconry Equipment: Get familiar with essential falconry equipment.
• Transporting Birds: Learn the best practices for transporting birds.
• Falconer’s Knot: Practice tying the falconer’s knot.
• Building Trust: Develop a bond of trust between bird and falconer.
• Weight and Food Management: Manage the bird's weight and diet.
• Training: Train your bird to return to the glove and use a transmitter.

Upon completion, participants will receive a certificate provided by our training provider Raptor Awards. 

Raptor Award Certification Units:

Keeping a Bird of Prey:

• C1: Accommodation and Equipment
• C2: Feeding and Nutrition
• C3: Monitor and Maintain Health
• C4: Catching, Restraining, and Moving
• C5: Legislation

Training a Bird of Prey:

• C6: Species Characteristics and Types
• C7: Furniture and Equipment
• C8: Initial Training, Manning, and Weight Management
• C9: Free Flying Your Bird of Prey

The Raptor Awards is a nationally and industry recognized certification, designed to educate participants on ensuring high welfare standards when keeping and training birds of prey.

Schedule:

• 10:30am: Basic falconry skills – behind the flying
• 12:30pm: Lunch
• 1:00pm: Basic falconry field craft and flying
• 3:00pm: Photo opportunities and goodbyes

Details:

• Duration: 4 hours
• Availability: Monday – Sunday
• Minimum Age: 8 (Under 16s must be accompanied by a full-paying adult; we cannot certify under 16s, but an attendance certificate can be provided)

Terms and Conditions:

• Cancellation Policy: If you cancel your booking less than 24 hours before the experience, no alternative date will be offered. If the experience is rescheduled, a rebooking fee may apply.
• Right to Cancel: Willows reserves the right to cancel the experience at the last minute due to weather conditions, animal welfare concerns, or staff shortages.
• Liability: Willows cannot be held responsible for any additional costs incurred due to such changes (including travel and accommodation).
• Voucher Validity: Open-dated vouchers are valid for 12 months from the date of payment. It is the participant's responsibility to book and use the voucher within this timeframe. No refunds or bookings will be accepted after the expiry date.