The Falcon is a majestic bird. It is from the eagle family but is more intelligent and swifter. It can soar to a height of three to four thousand feet and is a carnivorous bird that eyes its prey from a great height and then swoops down on the hapless victim. It has a telescopic sight and can see from great heights even a small animal like a baby hare. The falcon is a prized possession and rich sheiks keep many of them as pets. The falcon cannot however be completely domesticated and given an option will fly away. Most Sheiks will tie one leg of the bird with a small gilded chin toa post or a bar.
Many falcons are displayed in carnivals and festivals. They are great fun and great memorabilia for a tourist to photograph him with the falcon on his arm. One should however be careful to cover one's arm with a protective lining or otherwise, the talons of the bird can sink into the skin. It could lead to an injury.
I had an opportunity to visit many exhibitions and watching the falcon carefully. I have got at least a dozen photos of which one is published along with this post. The falcon is a hunting bird and lives up to its name. Many fighter squadrons name themselves as "Falcons". The UAE is the home of the falcon and the bird is greatly prized. Owning a few falcons adds to the stature of the locals.
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