Introduction to Falconry: Birds of Prey Field Training and Handling

Subject: Falconry, Ornithology, and Wildlife Conservation 

Location: Oviedo, FL

Course Description: 

We invite you to a rare and exclusive opportunity reserved for students with a genuine interest in falconry! We are thrilled to offer a privately crafted VIP small-group experience that brings the 4,000-year-old art of falconry to life. Participants will learn from an expert falconer the species, rules, and rich history of this ancient tradition while working hands-on with one falcon, two hawks, and one owl. Following a brief training session, the group will take to the field as these magnificent birds of prey soar from the trees and respond to your call. Each participant will have an opportunity to wear the glove and have a bird fly to them. Additionally, students will get to witness the birds feeding as part of the live demonstrations. 

Program Format: This small group, three hour program is for mature students with an interest in falconry who are able to stay calm around the birds. Parents must be present and may observe or choose to participate in the experience. There is a playground nearby for younger siblings. 

Group size max: 20

Physical Consideration: This program is outside and involves walking in outdoor fields and wooded areas and handling live birds of prey. 

Learning Outcomes:

• Recognize and distinguish the different types of birds in the program, along with their unique characteristics and roles in falconry.

• Understand the history, rules, regulations, and traditions of the 4,000-year-old art of falconry.

• Learn proper handling, calling, and field techniques for interacting with these trained raptors.

• Identify traditional and modern falconry equipment.

• Appreciate the conservation and educational value of this unique certified Florida falconry experience.

Tuition and Fees Schedule:

Non-participating siblings and parents: Free

Students Ages 8 and up: $95

Adults: $95

All participants under age 18 must have an adult parent or chaperone registered and present at the location at all times. Parents are not required to participate in this program but are welcome to register for a participation spot if they wish to. 

What’s included:

3 hour intro to falconry program with permitted expert falconer.

Educational materials 

What’s not included:

Transportation

Hotels

Meals

Souvenirs

Travel Insurance

Cancellation Policy:

No refunds once booked, as this program date is less than 30 days away.

We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise, and we will always do our best to work with you! Sometimes we have a waiting list and can transfer your space to another family. However, once participants are booked and committed to our location partners, we cannot recover them after certain dates. This is why travel insurance is suggested to cover any unexpected events, and we’ll strive to transfer funds to other trips whenever possible. Deposit is not refundable.

PARTICIPANT CANCELLATIONS:

Notification of cancellation must be received in writing to info@northwindsinstitute.com

Voucher Funds

This program is approved for Step-Up for Students in Florida and may qualify for other school voucher programs. No refunds will be issued as per SUFS policy.  All food, transportation, and hotel costs are paid for by the parent and not with scholarship funds. No refunds will be issued as per SUFS policy.