This morning while we were in the Drakensberg Mountains, we went to the Falcon Ridge Raptor Show, just down the road from where we were staying. The show is an hour-long presentation of various trained birds of prey. With the scenic Drakensberg Mountains as a backdrop, the birds put on a show and the trainer explained how they catch thermals (updrafts that develop near steep cliffs) to gain altitude and save them energy from having to flap their wings. The raptor facility also serves as a rehab shelter for injured birds, primarily hurt by flying into power lines.
This falcon was up close and personal. Wouldn’t want to hold him on your bare arm, his claws would sink in like a hot knife into butter.
Turkey Vulture in flight.
Bro. Hendri Viljoen holding a Peregrine Falcon, the fastest bird of prey on earth that can fly up to 250 mph.
Feeding a hawk while airborne.
A stubborn Turkey Vulture who didn’t want to leave the thatch roof for a prolonged period during the show.
The trainer sending off a raptor to circle and catch thermals.
A Turkey Vulture being rewarded with some meat.
A hawk coming in for a landing.
The trainer holding a hawk.
The Falcon Ridge Raptor Show in the Drakensberg Mountains.
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