Hadlow College in Kent has partnered with Willows Bird of Prey Centre in Sevenoaks to offer a unique new qualification in falconry, but the move has sparked criticism from animal welfare groups.
The college has become the first in the UK to embed a Raptor Award into a full-time study programme, training students to become model falconers. The qualification aims to meet growing industry demand for skilled falconers, particularly in tourism and pest control at stadiums.
A Sport with a Long History
Falconry, often considered the last legal bloodsport in Britain, has a history dating back to before the Norman conquest. Once a preserve of the nobility, the practice declined with the rise of firearms but saw a resurgence after Rachel Carson's 1962 book Silent Spring highlighted the decline of birds of prey due to pesticides. Falconers helped stabilize populations through intensive breeding. In 2021, UNESCO listed falconry as Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Animal Welfare Concerns
Despite its cultural significance, animal welfare groups have expressed deep concern. PETA's vice president Elisa Allen criticized falconry as a display of human power over birds, stating that birds have feelings and lives to live. Freedom for Animals co-director Laura Walton warned that the qualification risks legitimizing a system that causes significant physical and psychological harm to birds, citing investigations revealing routine tethering and confinement.
Jo Saunders, head of curriculum for animal management at Hadlow, defended the course, emphasizing that it teaches best practice and meets industry needs. The college works closely with Willows Birds of Prey Centre, whose manager Talia Hassan holds degrees in zoology and evolutionary biology.
Student Experiences
Students like Zara Cook, 20, have found the course transformative. Cook said the birds bring out the best in her, while Saunders noted that students gain confidence when handling birds. The college recently held a display where students showcased their skills under supervision.
The future of falconry remains debated, but Hadlow College is betting on its place in modern society, balancing tradition with ethical considerations.
