Falconry Kerry

Visiting a falconry will surely make an ordinary day special. Many families have chosen such entertaining sites to celebrate their kid's birthdays. Here, you can fly a hawk in the meadows with the assistance of a trained falconer. No prior falconry experience is necessary.

Rare opportunity
Falconry Kerry was established by a wildlife biologist Liam Regan at his family farm in Killarney, Co. Kerry. It is located less than 4 km from Killarney town centre. Nestled in the heart of County Kerry, Falconry Kerry combines an inspiring world of falconry, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Located along the Wild Atlantic Way, the falconry centre offers a rare opportunity to connect with majestic birds of prey against the stunning backdrop of the Atlantic coast. This spectacular setting makes every visit to Falconry Kerry an unforgettable journey.

Falconry Kerry is nestled in the heart of County Kerry, offering a picturesque location for visitors to experience the ancient art of falconry and the breathtaking beauty of Ireland. Whether you’re travelling from within Ireland or arriving as an international visitor, the falconry is easy to find. Moreover, it is conveniently located near some of Ireland’s most iconic destinations.

Killarney Falconry are extremely excited about their craft. They do their best to make you feel pleasant emotions surrounded by majestic birds of prey. The team have dedicated much time, effort and love to mastering these skills. Along with several varieties of birds of prey, including hawks, falcons, and owls, the farm is also home to some cows, friendly alpacas, and an apiary managed by Liam’s father Tim.

Traditionally, falconry was practised solely for hunting to catch food. Although many of these birds do hunt, a falconry experience is more about learning about the birds while having them up close and personal on your gauntlet. At Falconry Kerry, you will be entertained and educated about birds of prey around the world and their importance in the ecosystem. You will learn a lot about hunting alongside humans throughout history.

Conservation over productivity
Conservation is very important at Falconry Kerry. Falconers throughout Ireland are a point of contact for veterinarians and experts in raptor care. They collaborate to help rehabilitate and care for wild birds of prey that may be discovered injured and in need of attention care. For the last few years, falconers have been installing nest boxes to encourage barn owls to live on the farm. Owls are in danger of extinction due to agricultural practices and the use of rodenticides. Their number is decreasing because of a lack of suitable nesting places.

From early May, visitors can admire two acres of wildflowers in full bloom during the beekeeping experience. The flower meadow is, of course, pollinated by farm honeybees and other insects. Solitary bees do not live in a hive; many nests alone in crevices and holes.

The farm is managed with conservation rather than productivity in mind. Most of the fields have not been ploughed for over 30 years, producing a ‘long-term ley’ that consists of several species of grasses, weeds, wildflowers, and naturally occurring herbs. This could not be maintained through more industrious farming but is much more wildlife-friendly for everything from microbes and earthworms to insects and mammals.

They also have maintained the old hedgerows and ditches. A boundary ‘fence’ was formed a long time ago from large stones to separate the fields. Untouched by farmers, such constructions allow bushes and large oak trees to grow which provides safe homes for small animals and insects. Therefore, these are referred to as “wildlife corridors”.

Unique adventure
Come and participate in the ancient sport known as “the sport of kings”. Do not miss out on the chance to embark on a unique falconry adventure. Falconry Kerry offers an experience that complements the magic of the Wild Atlantic Way. Immerse yourself in Ireland’s natural wonders while learning about the ancient art of falconry. This experience will introduce you to a captivating world of a 4,000-year-old tradition.

A falconry experience is family-friendly and suitable for all ages and fitness levels. It involves a stroll through the meadows of a working farm, with Killarney’s famous mountain range visible in the background. Once you feel comfortable among the hawks, you can cast it free from your hand with the assistance of the guide. Can you imagine a free-flying hawk alighting on your hand at your command?

Falconry is very safe; the birds will not attack you or your children. On your part, please do not let children annoy the birds. Contrary to popular belief, they are not attracted to shiny things like jewellery. Many are very susceptible to loud noises or sudden movements so please consider this when visiting with children. Children of all ages can join an experience but only those of 8 years and older will be provided a gauntlet.

Helpful tips
Whether you prefer spending time outdoors or indoors, you will be captivated by interacting closely with these marvellous birds. The activity is referred to as falconry whether you fly a Falcon, Hawk, Eagle or Owl. However, guests are not allowed to handle the Falcons as they are shy birds which are not easy to handle without experience.

As with any outdoor experience, falconry is a little weather-dependent. Some light rain or showers are fine, but in case of very heavy and persistent rain, it is not enjoyable for anybody, including birds! Therefore, an indoor experience is offered if the weather is unsuitable. No special clothing is required. Please come dressed appropriately for the weather conditions on the day. Some people feel more comfortable wearing long sleeves. Outdoor footwear is advisable. The grass is maintained very short but can be wet.

You can drive right up to the field where they fly the birds if necessary. Then you need to walk a very short distance (up to 100 metres) on a level surface. There may be slight undulations in the field but no rocks or hills etc. There is plenty of parking available here at the farm for cars and coaches also.