LCCTC CC Eagles come face to feather with falcons

Today, the LCCTC CC had a guest speaker, Mike Martone. Martone has been a falconer since the age of 40 and dreamed about it since he was 8.

Falconry is an ancient hunting tradition. Interest in the sport has fluctuated throughout history. Some reports say falconry dates back to 2000 BC. During Medieval Times, falconry was enjoyed by nobles meaning that a bird of prey was also a status symbol. However, it would also be likely that peasants would use a falcon to hunt small game in the wintertime as well.

The sport was had little (recorded) interest in America until 1930s. Then over a few years, several falconers' societies were created.

Now, it is seen as a specialized hobby by dedicated sportsman. It requires special permits, testing and licensing, areas and buildings, as well as inspections from law enforcement agencies. As Martone explained he needed to find a master falconer and become sponsored as he went through the apprentice phase. Your first bird is either a red-tailed hawk (as he had today) or American Kestrel. From there with expertise, you can hunt with Harris hawk, Goshawk, Peregrine Falcon. or others.

Information is out there for those interested in this old tradition, but it takes research. Every falconer I've met is always glad to take someone interested hunting.

Mike Martone's biggest take home point- Find a hobby. Hobbies become part of us an are critical to your identity, so find something active that you love. Step away from the TV and the Game Consoles. Connect to something real!

UPDATE:

THE LCCTC EAGLE Journalism students have taken on writing about Martone's visit as well. Read their article here.