A nice letter from happy hawk walkers
Dear Kate, Jana, Jeremy and especially Diego, Richard and I would love to thank you for our wonderful experience on our Tuesday (29 March 2011) hawk walk. I can not tell you how excited, impressed and awed by the experience of getting to know you all and the lovely Diego. We are still talking about how much fun we had and how we would love to see these birds on a regular basis. The experience was absolutely incredible. Kate and Jana, you both are amazing people and I look forward to my next hawk walk in the near future and your continued friendship. Shock and Awe!!!!!!!!!!
sincerely, Richard and Gay Johnson
“Yes Camp” at Loma Mar
Dear Kate and Jana,
I’m writing to express my deep appreciation for the presentation you gave to Yes Camp last weekend. Your enthusiasm and raptor rapture is infectious, and I could see that you and your birds had a very stimulating impact on campers and staffers alike. Two points that you touched on were coherent with themes that we employ at YES: 1.) There are amazing natural creatures with whom we share our communities and 2.) These natural entities are worthy of our attention, our respect, and our protection. I was very impressed with the generosity of your work. To have such birds at such close range is truly impressive, but to see them fly just overhead, and for some of the youngsters to have the opportunity to perch one on their fist was exceptional. You all held the campers’ attention, and I had several youngsters come up to me later with questions about what they had seen and heard. The day after your presentation we dissected owl pellets with much enthusiasm. We had a very good weekend program with these Richmond families, and you guys helped to make it memorable. ~ Sincerely, George Eade
Thanks again for your hospitality. I had a great time; it was indeed an experience of a lifetime. I am sure you will be hearing from me quite often, I am still quite excited and intend on pursuing falconry further. I must say that the whole experience has really touched me, being able to “meet” your hawks and see that these special creatures are not only gifted with incredible instincts, but are also so very different from one another in personalities. I am so impressed by each hawk’s abilities. Colimae the Goshawk was not only impressive but a tad…..okay…..REALLY intimidating!! Mac the Saker has quite the attitude (I think that bird hit me twice!! Now that I think about it… I think you set me up!), while Zeus is quieter but was sure a joy to watch fly! Priscilla is equally entertaining with such a quick flight it is hard to believe she can maneuver that fast. I really appreciated the “hands on” that you implemented in this class. I can see how nervous a person can get letting a bird fly free the first time. I am very happy to have been a part of that. I have nothing but praises for this entire experience and I cannot express enough my gratitude for the hospitality you showed to me. ~ Sincerely, Randy Borman
Comments about West Coast Falconry’s Exhibit at the KVMR Celtic Festival in Grass Valley, California.
West Coast Falconry, the California Hawking Club and the California Foundation for Birds of Prey joined together to create the exhibit.
The Birds of Prey and Falconry exhibit at the KVMR Celtic Festival was fantastic! I have rarely seen people more enthralled and engaged. Besides the music, I think the biggest crowds were by far at the Birds of Prey and Falconry exhibit. Thanks to all who made this exhibit a standout at the Festival. ~ Amy Terhorst, KVMR Celtic Festival Producer
Gosh, I can’t say enough great things about this exhibit. For me, this was one of the highlights of the festivals grounds entertainment options. My Mom and I were not only captivated by the beauty and wonder of the birds, but by the knowledge they have of them. It was clear to see that they have such love and respect for these magnificent creatures and thoroughly enjoy sharing passion that with all who come to view them. ~ Jenny Michaels, Grounds Entertainment Manager
The public seemed to LOVE it! I never went by that area that I didn’t see a crowd. And at one point, I saw a falconer walking through the event with that huge owl on her shoulder, and it nearly blew me away. SO big and beautiful. In the meantime, be sure to let West Coast Falconry know how much they were appreciated… and what a good service they provide in educating us all to the wonder of these magnificent birds. ~ Tami Fulton, Marketplace Manager
What an unusual and spectacular display of creatures we rarely get to see up close. I came away with a feeling of awe and respect. ~ Carol Hershleb, Food Area Manager