Arpita Basu
Gyrfalcon
The Gyrfalcons (Falco Rusticolus) are the largest true falcon in the world with an average wingspan of 4 - 4 1/2 feet. They have a variety of plumage colours ranging from white to almost black. The Gyrfalcon breeds in arctic and subarctic regions of the northern hemisphere. They prey mostly on large birds, pursuing them in breathtakingly fast and powerful flight.
Gyrfalcons have been highly regarded by falconers throughout falconry’s history. In the middle ages, due to the rarity and the difficulties involved in obtaining them, these beautiful falcons were generally reserved for kings and nobles. Gyrfalcons are very expensive to buy even today and are a prized possession, and thus owners and breeders may keep them secret to avoid theft.
Wild Gyrfalcons are not much exposed to disease, and have a weak immune systems. As a result, their chances of survival in the wild is not very promising. However, several generations of captive breeding helped in forming a stronger immune system and thus better resistance to disease.
Gyrfalcon
The Gyrfalcons (Falco Rusticolus) are the largest true falcon in the world with an average wingspan of 4 - 4 1/2 feet. They have a variety of plumage colours ranging from white to almost black. The Gyrfalcon breeds in arctic and subarctic regions of the northern hemisphere. They prey mostly on large birds, pursuing them in breathtakingly fast and powerful flight.
Gyrfalcons have been highly regarded by falconers throughout falconry’s history. In the middle ages, due to the rarity and the difficulties involved in obtaining them, these beautiful falcons were generally reserved for kings and nobles. Gyrfalcons are very expensive to buy even today and are a prized possession, and thus owners and breeders may keep them secret to avoid theft.
Wild Gyrfalcons are not much exposed to disease, and have a weak immune systems. As a result, their chances of survival in the wild is not very promising. However, several generations of captive breeding helped in forming a stronger immune system and thus better resistance to disease.