Learn about the ancient art of falconry from Bill O’Leary at Beall Woods State Park on Saturday, April 7th. This symbiotic relationship between man and bird dates back 4,000 years and became known as “The Sport of Kings”. Training a raptor to hunt wild quarry in its natural habitat requires serious dedication of time and energy from the falconer. O’Leary has had a passion for falconry since 1974, thus resulting in several years of experience in bird care, training, and hunting. He received a Master of Science in wildlife management from Southern Illinois University and is a retired Natural Resources Specialist with the IDNR. The presentation will begin at 1pm inside the park’s Visitor Center. Participants will have the opportunity to see a merlin and possibly a peregrine falcon. For more information, please call 618-298-2441.
Photo of Peregrine Falcon by Norm Cline