In a remarkable fusion of ancient tradition and modern ethics, a falconry center in Russia’s remote Kamchatka Peninsula has developed a groundbreaking new sporting discipline. The ‘Kamchatka’ falconry center, located in the Milkovsky district, has pioneered a humane form of falconry using gyrfalcons, with the first official competitions slated for 2026, according to founder Shukhrat Razakov. This initiative aims to redefine the age-old pursuit for a new generation.
The key innovation lies in the bird’s behavior, which completely eliminates harm to the prey. After a rigorous two-year training program, the gyrfalcons are taught not to kill, but to skillfully catch and gently hold their quarry until the falconer arrives. This ‘catch and hold’ technique showcases the bird’s incredible prowess and intelligence while adhering to a bloodless and compassionate code of conduct, a significant departure from traditional hunting practices.
This novel approach has already captured the attention of partners in the United Arab Emirates, a nation where falconry is a revered part of its national heritage. Traditionally, the sport in the Arab world is reserved for adults. The humane format developed in Kamchatka, however, opens the door for children to participate for the first time, potentially making the cultural practice more accessible and secure for younger enthusiasts and fostering a new international bridge for the sport.
The concept and technology are entirely a Russian innovation, driven by the youth team at the ‘Kamchatka’ center, marking a world-first in the evolution of falconry. The project carries significant conservation implications, as it centers on the gyrfalcon, one of the world’s largest and rarest falcons. The species is listed as vulnerable in Kamchatka’s Red Book and is protected under both Russian federal law and international conventions, making this initiative a unique intersection of cultural preservation, sporting innovation, and wildlife conservation.