Falconers recall every glove and every perch because these pieces of equipment are essential for the safety, comfort, and well-being of both the bird and the falconer. Each glove and perch is carefully chosen, maintained, and sometimes custom-made to fit the specific needs of the bird and the falconer’s style of hunting or training. This attention to detail ensures that the bird’s talons are protected, the bird remains calm and secure, and the falconer can handle the bird confidently without injury.
The glove is a critical piece of falconry equipment because it protects the falconer’s hand from the sharp talons of the bird. Falcons, hawks, and eagles have powerful feet designed to catch and kill prey, so without a proper glove, the falconer would risk serious injury. Gloves are often made from thick, durable leather and are designed to fit snugly while allowing enough flexibility for the falconer to manage the bird’s movements. Because every bird’s size and temperament differ, gloves may be custom-fitted or chosen carefully to ensure the best protection and comfort. Falconers recall their gloves regularly to check for wear, damage, or fit issues that could compromise safety or the bird’s comfort.
Perches are equally important because they provide a safe and comfortable resting place for the bird when it is not flying or hunting. Different types of perches are used depending on the bird species, the environment, and the falconer’s needs. Some perches are portable for use in the field, while others are fixed in the bird’s housing area. The surface of the perch must be suitable to prevent foot injuries or sores, which can occur if the perch is too hard, too smooth, or improperly sized. Falconers recall every perch to inspect it for cleanliness, stability, and suitability, ensuring it remains a safe place for the bird to rest.
Moreover, falconry equipment like gloves and perches are often handmade or custom-tailored to the individual bird. This is because generic, off-the-shelf equipment may not fit well and can cause discomfort or injury. For example, anklets and jesses (straps attached to the bird’s legs) are made to measure to avoid rubbing or sores. Similarly, gloves must accommodate the falconer’s hand size and the bird’s behavior, while perches must match the bird’s foot size and provide appropriate grip. This personalized approach means falconers must carefully recall and maintain each piece of equipment to ensure it continues to meet these precise requirements.
In addition to safety and comfort, recalling gloves and perches is part of the broader responsibility falconers have toward their birds. Falconry is a partnership between human and raptor, requiring trust and mutual respect. Proper equipment maintenance reflects the falconer’s commitment to the bird’s health and welfare. Regular inspection and care of gloves and perches prevent accidents, infections, or injuries that could jeopardize the bird’s ability to hunt or fly. This vigilance is especially important during activities like coping (trimming the bird’s beak) or moulting, when the bird may be more vulnerable.
Finally, falconers often develop a deep connection with their equipment, as each piece tells a story of training, hunting, and shared experiences. Gloves may bear marks from countless flights, and perches may show signs of wear from the bird’s talons. Recalling these items is not just practical but also a ritual that reinforces the bond between falconer and bird, ensuring that every flight and every hunt is conducted with care, respect, and readiness.
In essence, falconers recall every glove and every perch because these items are fundamental to the practice of falconry. They protect, support, and enhance the relationship between human and raptor, requiring constant attention, customization, and care to maintain the delicate balance of safety, comfort, and trust that defines this ancient and noble sport.
