Global falcon breeding farms gather at international auction near Riyadh

The annual International Falcon Breeding Farms Auction convenes in Malham, a town north of Riyadh, uniting falcon breeding establishments hailing from across the globe. This event transcends a mere market for falcons, offering attendees an immersive experience that showcases the distinct breeding methodologies, bloodlines, and selection processes of diverse farms.

As falcons of various species, including gyrfalcons, peregrines, sakers, and hybrids, take center stage, breeders and falconers deliberate over a multitude of traits, each tailored to the intended purpose. Racing falcons are prized for their lineage, swiftness, physical prowess, and the accomplishments of their lineage. Conversely, contenders in beauty contests are evaluated based on dimensions, hues, facial, wing, and chest symmetry, accompanied by other qualities discerned by seasoned handlers.

The participation of international farms brings forth an array of strategies to cultivate these desired attributes. For instance, a Portuguese farm employs the Wild Hacking method, whereby young falcons are released into the untamed, breezy highlands to cultivate stamina before undergoing training. European farms, on the other hand, concentrate on nurturing specialized racing lines, drawing inspiration from the performance of parents and siblings.

Canadian, Finnish, Scottish bloodlines, alongside lines meticulously developed through years of selective breeding, converge at this event.

Simultaneously, local Saudi farms strive to produce competitive falcons, leveraging the presence of international breeders and falconers to engage in comparative assessments and keep a watchful eye on prevailing market trends. The significance of this diversity extends far beyond the appellations of bloodlines. Each falcon embodies the narrative of its farm, its nurturing, and the traits for which it was meticulously chosen.

Thus, the International Falcon Breeding Farms Auction emerges as a confluence of multiple breeding institutions, bound by the common objective of producing falcons that demonstrate their mettle post their departure from the auction platform and their entry into the competitive arena. The auction remains accessible to visitors from August 2 to August 25.