What is Falconry?
Falconry, by definition, is the art of hunting wild animals using a trained bird of prey. But it’s much more than that…
It’s about watching these amazing birds do what they do best. What they are built to do. It’s about feeling the excitement as the bird flies off the glove or stoops through the sky at speed. It’s about enjoying nature and learning about the circle of life.
It’s not just a hobby, it is in every sense a way of life.
Find out more about Falconry…
Local Clubs
Bird Species
About SAFA
Since its inception, SAFA has played an active role in the falconry community, both locally and internationally. SAFA became a member organization of the International Association for Falconry (IAF) in 1991 and has sent representatives to IAF meetings. In 2008, SAFA hosted the IAF meeting in conjunction with a field meet at Black Mountain, Thaba Nchu. Over the years, SAFA has grown in numbers and participation. The first field meet was held in 1992 in Dullstroom, in collaboration with the annual TFC meet. This event attracted falconers from all over the country and showcased the suitability of the area for longwing hawking.
The popularity of the meet and the need for a more central venue led to the relocation of the field meet to Maselspoort in subsequent years . SAFA has come a long way since its inception in 1991. The association has played a significant role in promoting falconry in South Africa and has been actively involved in conservation efforts. SAFA’s commitment to establishing and maintaining consistent standards in falconry has led to the development of national standards for falconry in South Africa.
Falconry Birds in South Africa
South Africa is blessed with a lot of species of birds of prey. There are a lot of different birds to hunt with. Although there is a grading system, it is generally recommended that you fly the birds that you have the space and time for. Although almost all birds of prey can be used, the most common birds used by falconers in South Africa are...
- Peregrine Falcon
- Lanner Falcon
- Red-necked Falcon
- Black Sparrowhawk
- Red-chested Sparrowhawk
- African Goshawk
- Jackal Buzzard
- Rock Kestrel
- African Hawk Eagle
- Ovambo Sparrowhawk
What it takes…
Although it is considered a hobby in South Africa and a sport in many countries, Falconry is more of a lifestyle. It is a full commitment to give the bird the right care, stimulation and exercise to live an enriched life. It is important that you have the time, and dedication to give your bird time everyday to hunt and or train. The type of bird you have determines the time and space required. For more information, please contact your local provincial club.
Become a Falconer
If you’re interested in falconry, becoming a member or just want to find out more information, please contact the club based in your province. They will get back to you and provide you with more information.