The British School of Falconry

The British School of Falconry is the nation's first school of its kind to offer hands-on lessons with trained birds of prey. Guests at the Equinox are invited to try one of the world's oldest sports in the beautiful setting of Hildene Meadows and enhance their appreciation of these magnificent birds. During a session, guests will learn to handle and fly Harris hawks. Introductory lessons, "hawk walks" and hunts are all offered to give guests the opportunity to appreciate these amazing animals.

Please note: Handling of the hawks is for ages 12 years and older.

To book a course, call 802-362-4780.

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Indoor "Winter" Introductory Lesson


In this hands-on introduction to the art of falconry, you are taught to handle a Harris hawk in the comfort of the hawk barn. See below for pricing.

Introductory Lesson


This introduction provides hands-on learning, equipping the student to both handle and fly a Harris hawk. One non-participant may view the lesson for free, but each additional non-participant will be charged a $29 fee.

Hawk Walk


During this session, guests free fly Harris hawks along The Equinox' scenic trails. Guests are required to have taken a lesson prior to participating in a Hawk Walk. One free non-participant. Additional spectators $43 each.

Combination


Combine an Introductory lesson with a Hawk Walk and receive a special discount.

Hunting


Enjoy a hunting session during which Harris hawks are flown at partridge, quail, rabbit, or other game in season. Available September and October on Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays.


LessonDurationPrice Per GuestPrice Per Non-Participant 
Indoor "Winter" Introductory Lesson30 min.$591st person FREE; Each additional person $29
Introductory Lesson45 min.$891st person FREE; Each additional person $29
Hawk WalkOne hour$1491st person free. Each additional person $43.
Introductory Lesson with Hawk walk1 hr 45 min.$225Varies
Hunting3.5 hours$299$299 per person

Introductory Package


Non-participant rates apply. One-night stay with 45-minute introductory lesson and one-hour Hawk Walk. Book the Falconry Introductory Package online, or call 800-362-4747 for current rates.

Three-day Beginners Course


Three nights Superior accommodations, Breakfast Daily, and an in-depth study of the sport of falconry. This course is intended for individuals considering taking up the ancient sport of falconry. Although it does not license the student to practice, it provides essential background information for any future falconer. A combination of classroom and field time will take the participant through various steps of acquiring and training a hawk, culminating in a hunt on the final day. Please contact the falconry school for more information.

Certification Course


Unique courses which allow students to progress from basic practices to more advanced falconry techniques. Level one, two, and three may be completed at The British School of Falconry at Gleneagles in Scotland or the Equinox. Includes lesson manuals, whistle, and lanyard. Please call for more information. (The course does not license students.)



Group Hunt


An opportunity for guests to be part of a hunting session, during which Harris Hawks are flown on a private hunting preserve at partridge, quail, rabbit, or pheasant in season, over a trained hunting dog. Available September and October.

Falconry for Groups


Country Pursuits offers a selection of group lessons and events to choose from, including the unique chance to learn about falconry and handle a hawk. Requires a minimum of twelve guests.

Hands-on Demonstration


An informal demonstration, with the opportunity for guests to handle and fly Harris Hawks. This is ideal for evenings prior to a 'Falconry for Groups" session. For larger groups, we can provide two instructors with Harris Hawks and a static display of an eagle. Winter demonstrations are available as well at different pricing. Call the school to inquire.


Group LessonDurationPrice Per Guest
Group Hunt3 hours$199 per person
Falconry for Groupsfrom 1.5 hoursfrom $75
Hands-on Demonstration45 Mins$750/$895