Soaring with Raptors: A Falconry Adventure in Colorado Springs
In search of a new thrill, I ventured to Colorado Springs for a falconry experience that promised to be unlike any other. With the chance to interact with hawks and falcons, I was eager to see how this ancient sport would compare to my usual adrenaline-pumping adventures.
The Call of the Wild: A Falconry Adventure
The sun was just beginning to peek over the horizon as I arrived at the designated meeting point at 6 Lake Avenue, Colorado Springs. The air was crisp, and the anticipation was palpable. I was about to embark on a falconry experience with the Broadmoor Outfitters, a chance to connect with nature in a way I had never done before. As someone who has scaled mountains and trekked through deserts, the idea of interacting with birds of prey was a thrilling new frontier.
Deanna, our expert falconer, greeted us with a warm smile, her passion for these magnificent creatures evident in every word she spoke. Accompanied by Tyler and Gabe, our shuttle drivers, we were whisked away to the mews, where the birds awaited. The journey was short, but the excitement was building. I could feel the adrenaline coursing through my veins, much like the moments before a bungee jump or a cliff dive.
The Dance of the Hawks
As we arrived at the mews, the sight of the birds was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Eagles, owls, hawks, and falcons, each with their own unique beauty and grace. Deanna’s knowledge of their natural history was impressive, and her enthusiasm was infectious. She encouraged us to ask questions, and I found myself eager to learn more about these incredible creatures.
The highlight of the experience was the “hawk walk,” where we ventured into the surrounding countryside to witness a hawk hunt. The hawk soared through the sky with a grace and power that left me breathless. It was a dance of nature, a primal display of skill and instinct. As the hawk returned to Deanna’s glove, I felt a connection to the wild that I had never experienced before.
Holding the Falcon: A Moment of Thrill
The experience culminated with the opportunity to hold a trained Saker Falcon. As I donned the leather glove, my heart raced with excitement. The falcon perched on my arm, its eyes sharp and intelligent, its presence commanding. It was a moment of pure adrenaline, a thrill that rivaled any extreme sport I had ever undertaken.
The falconry experience was more than just an adventure; it was a journey into the heart of nature, a chance to witness the ancient bond between man and bird. For those seeking a unique thrill, I highly recommend this falconry adventure. It’s an experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the natural world and a story to tell for years to come.