Training lures have been used in falconry for centuries, and experienced falconers understand the importance of using this traditional tool correctly. Training lures can effectively teach a bird basic hunting skills or introduce new techniques, such as diving and long-distance flying. It may seem overwhelming if you haven’t used a training lure before – but don’t worry!
A training lure is used in two main ways – the first is for recall, and the second is for basic training and exercise. A falconer will use a lure pad with a long rope. The falconer swung this lure pad in a circular motion to recall the bird back to them. In most cases, a piece of meat is attached to the lure pad as a form of reward to the falcon.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to use a training lure in falconry safely and effectively so that you can get the most out of your birds’ flights. So read on to learn more about this ancient practice and see if it is right for you.
What is a training lure, and what are its benefits for falconry training
Training lures can be essential components in falconry training. A training lure is a type of toy that resembles prey animals and is used to give the birds something to chase while developing its ability to target, attack, and catch a game. I have often used lure pads to recall my bird from an unsuccessful hunt or at the end of a flying session. My birds are trained to understand that they return to a guaranteed reward when I use a lure pad. When falconers learn to regulate their raptors’ reactions with steady pressure and the reward of the quarry, these tools help build confidence for these birds of prey. Benefits include teaching how to soar, hunt, and maintain flight duration endurance.
Furthermore, lures also improve technique and form and discipline during flight paths and consequent manoeuvres. Finally, depending on the species being trained, training lures can also help advance hunting skills, such as recognizing when to keep near cover or lining up a quarry properly for interception. Therefore, using a training lure has numerous advantages for falconry training.
If you would like to learn more about the various types of lures used in falconry we have a blog that discusses the many different types of lures used in falconry.
How to properly use a training lure to train your hawk or eagle?
Training a hawk or eagle is both an exciting and rewarding experience. However, you need to take a few important steps to make the training process successful. One important step is properly swinging your lure pad to motivate your bird. When using a training lure pad, start with short amounts of time and build up gradually as your hawk or eagle becomes more comfortable. Move the lure back and forth to produce movement that’s on point with what your bird needs to develop its techniques when flying after prey. I have learnt a few tricks when using a lure pad that helps me to properly and visibly manoeuvre the lure whilst ensuring its visibility to the bird at all times. Firstly I measure a portion of the rope that I use to my arm’s length. Then, I hold the rope at the point and steadily swing the lure in a circular motion whilst ever so often swinging the rope higher as the bird draws closer. It’s important to master the art of lure training before attempting it with your bird. It would be best if you were comfortable with the lure before using it to train with your bird.
When possible, pair positive reinforcement with your training sessions; for example, offer a food reward once your hawk or eagle has completed a task during each session. Doing these things will ensure a positive and successful experience for you and your bird using a training lure pad.
There are different types of lures to serve different purposes, such as:
Several types of lures are available for falconry training, each serving a specific purpose. For example, some lures are designed to help teach birds of prey the basics of soaring and hunting. These lures are typically made of feathers or fur to mimic the appearance of a real animal as realistically as possible. To name a few lures that falconers use:
1. The stoop
2. The creance
3. The balloon
4. The kite
5. Wings
6. Swing Lure
How to make your training lure pad at home if you’re feeling crafty:
If you’re feeling a little crafty and have some spare time on your hands, making your training lure pad for falconry is relatively easy. All you need is some stiff material like canvas, jute burlap, leather or denim, which can be cut and shaped into the desired size of your pad, grommets to reinforce where the line is tied off, and bridle leather to help secure it in place. Slip some steel weights into the pockets at each end to add extra weight for throwing the lure during training sessions. Once finished, tie off the leather with strong nylon thread or similar, and you’re ready to start using your homemade training pad!
The best ways to use a training lure to keep your bird in top condition:
To become proficient in using a training lure, start with low flight so that your bird can quickly comprehend new tasks related to retrieving the lure. Then, make sure to pattern flight occasionally and vary distances and flights regularly to give your bird maximum exposure. Practising these drills a few times a week will keep the bird physically fit and strengthen the bond between humans and avians. Ultimately, using a training lure is an enjoyable activity for you and your bird that can lead to life-long positive experiences!
A training lure can be a fantastic tool for new and experienced falconers. If you use it correctly, you’ll find that your bird will respond well to the training process and progress more quickly. Keep in mind, however, that using a training lure is not a replacement for proper instruction from an experienced falconer. If you’re just getting started in falconry, make sure to find a mentor who can help you through the beginning stages of learning how to train your bird effectively.