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Peregrine falcon perched on a stone wall in the Irish countryside at golden hour

Birds of Prey

Meet Our Raptors

Each bird is a living testament to centuries of Irish falconry tradition — noble, powerful, and profoundly connected to the land.

Our Philosophy

A Bond Built on Trust & Respect

At Falconry in Ireland, every bird in our care is treated as a wild soul first and a partner second. Our falconers dedicate years to understanding raptor behaviour, building relationships rooted in patience, mutual trust, and deep respect for these extraordinary creatures.

Our birds are not merely trained performers — they are ambassadors of Ireland's living falconry heritage, each with their own personality, history, and story to tell. When you meet them, you step into a tradition stretching back over 4,000 years.

12+

Resident Birds

6

Species

20+

Years of Care

Irish falconer with a Harris hawk perched on a leather glove, demonstrating the bond between falconer and bird

UNESCO

Recognised Heritage

Peregrine falcon in flight over wild Irish cliffs with wings spread wide
Featured Species

Falco peregrinus

The Peregrine Falcon

The fastest creature on Earth — the Peregrine Falcon is the crown jewel of falconry. Reaching speeds of over 380 km/h in a hunting stoop, this bird has been prized by falconers across cultures and centuries, from medieval Irish chieftains to modern-day enthusiasts.

Ireland's wild coasts and cliffs are home to nesting peregrine populations, and our resident birds carry that same wild spirit. Training a peregrine is a lifelong commitment and one of falconry's most prestigious pursuits.

  • Top Speed: Up to 389 km/h in a hunting stoop
  • Wingspan: 89–120 cm
  • Diet: Medium-sized birds, primarily caught in flight
  • Status: Conservation success story in Ireland

Our Residents

Meet the Full Mews

From the stoic Harris Hawk to the silent barn owl, each bird in our care brings its own chapter to Ireland's falconry story.

Harris hawk perched on a falconer's leather gauntlet with green Irish countryside in background

Parabuteo unicinctus

Harris Hawk

The sociable hunter of the raptor world. Harris Hawks are unique for hunting in cooperative family groups — a trait that makes them exceptionally responsive to falconers and ideal for beginners and experienced handlers alike.

Beginner Friendly Social Hunter
Red-tailed hawk perched on a wooden post in an Irish field showing distinctive red tail

Buteo jamaicensis

Red-Tailed Hawk

One of the most iconic raptors in the falconry world. The Red-tailed Hawk is known for its calm temperament, impressive wingspan, and the distinctive brick-red tail that gives it its name. A powerful and reliable hunting partner.

Calm Temperament Powerful Hunter
Barn owl with heart-shaped white face perched on ancient Irish stone ruins at twilight

Tyto alba

Barn Owl

Ireland's ghostly night hunter. The Barn Owl is deeply woven into Irish folklore and countryside tradition. With silent flight and extraordinary hearing, it navigates total darkness with ease — a living piece of the Irish landscape's magic.

Nocturnal Irish Folklore
Eurasian eagle-owl with vivid orange eyes and ear tufts photographed face-on in a misty forest

Bubo bubo

Eurasian Eagle-Owl

Europe's largest owl and one of falconry's most awe-inspiring presences. The Eurasian Eagle-Owl's piercing orange eyes and imposing wingspan of nearly two metres leave a lasting impression on every visitor fortunate enough to meet one.

Europe's Largest Owl Majestic
Merlin falcon perched on heather in a wild Irish bog landscape in autumn

Falco columbarius

Merlin

Ireland's smallest falcon and a bird steeped in Celtic myth. The Merlin was historically the 'lady's hawk' in medieval falconry — a spirited, agile flyer that punches well above its weight. Named, some say, after the legendary wizard himself.

Celtic Heritage Agile Flyer
Kestrel hovering motionless in the sky over green Irish farmland, wings spread wide

Falco tinnunculus

Common Kestrel

Ireland's most recognisable roadside raptor. The Kestrel is famous for its trademark hover — hanging perfectly still in the wind while scanning the ground below. A true Irish native and beloved countryside companion throughout the seasons.

Irish Native Expert Hoverer

Welfare First

Care & Training Philosophy

Responsible falconry means putting the bird's wellbeing above all else. Our approach blends traditional methods with modern avian science.

Natural Diet

Species-appropriate, high-quality fresh food sourced ethically to reflect each bird's natural prey items and nutritional requirements.

Spacious Mews

Custom-built weathering and housing facilities designed to minimise stress and maximise comfort for each individual bird species.

Positive Training

All training is based on positive reinforcement. We never force a bird to fly — every interaction is voluntary and built on genuine trust.

Veterinary Care

Regular health checks with specialist avian veterinarians ensure every bird is in peak physical condition throughout the year.

Ready to Meet Them?

Experience These Magnificent Birds First-Hand

Words and photographs can only tell part of the story. Join us in the Irish countryside and discover the thrill of having one of these extraordinary raptors fly to your glove.