Country Pursuits Falconry & Hawk Walk | Adare Ireland

Travel to Ireland is bound to bring about adventure… The narrow roads are poorly paved and the speed limit is way to fast. (It would have been the best drive of my life if only they drove on the right so Brent would let me drive!)  Adventure is everywhere!  Wednesday was our first full day of adventure at the Adare Manor so we enjoyed sleeping in a little bit as we got used to the time difference. However, we were almost too excited to sleep. Our schedule was full with fun group activities – the first being the Falconry and Hawk Walk Experience with Adare Country Pursuits.  The experience began with a static display of birds including a Lanner Falcon, Saker Falcon, Bald Eagle, Steppe Eagle, Barn Owl, Eagle Owl, Western Screech Owl, Mexican Striped Owl, Chaco Owl, Buzard, and Harris Hawks. Our trained falconer introduced us to each of the birds and give use some insight into their incredible lifestyles. They are all magnificent birds of prey!  It was one of the coolest hands on learning experiences I’ve had to date.  They were all so fluffy and cute – It was so hard not to squeeze and love on them.  Following our introduction to each bird, they brought out the newest edition to the flock – a baby American Bald Eagle named“Saoirse”.  Growing up on the ranch in Florida, we had a pair of American Bald Eagles that nested nearby but we never got to see them close up. They are truly a sight to behold!  American Bald Eagles are majestic animals – no doubt why they are the symbol of our great nation.  We weren’t allowed to touch her but we did get to see her soar.   After Saoirse was put up in her home, we moved on to the real fun…The Hawk Walk portion of the afternoon involved a short walk through the woods with the bird flying from tree to gloved hand. Warning – birds appear to be flying at your face!  Exhilarating and captivating, this is unlike anything you have experienced before.  It was a great afternoon learning adventure. One I definitely recommend! It’s important to understand the creatures we share the earth with so we can take better care of them.

Be sure to check back tomorrow for more adventures in Ireland….