Become a Falconer for a Day Above the Pacific: Catalina Falconry in Descanso Canyon

AVALON WILDLIFE FIELD GUIDE

Become a Falconer for a Day Above the Pacific: Catalina Falconry in Descanso Canyon

Learn the art of falconry and handle majestic raptors against a Pacific backdrop—this guide distills what to expect from the Avalon falconry experience.

Become a Falconer for a Day Above the Pacific: Catalina Falconry in Descanso Canyon.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Avalon
Operator
Santa Catalina Island Company
Category
Wildlife
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Set in Descanso Canyon on Catalina Island, the Falconry Experience immerses participants in hands-on work with trained raptors: you learn the art of falconry, hold and cast birds, and call them back against a sweeping Pacific backdrop. The program is built around direct interaction with these birds and an instructional, day‑long experience that leaves lasting images and new skills.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE RAPTORS

Up Close with Majestic Birds

The core of the day is close interaction with trained raptors—handling, casting and calling them back—so participants come away having worked directly with the birds and practiced falconry techniques.

THE SETTING

Descanso Canyon, Framed by the Pacific

The activity unfolds in Descanso Canyon with a dramatic Pacific backdrop, providing both scenic vantage points and memorable photo opportunities as birds fly and return.

THE HANDS‑ON

Learn Falconry Through Doing

Designed as an instructional, experiential session, the program teaches the art of falconry in practical, repeatable steps—participants are shown how to hold, cast and call back the raptors themselves.

What the day feels like

What the Day Feels Like

The Falconry Experience is a hands‑on instructional day: you move from orientation to guided handling, then practice casting and calling back trained raptors while instructors supervise. The rhythm is practical and participatory—the emphasis is on learning through direct contact with the birds and on capturing those fleeting moments against the canyon and ocean vistas.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who gets the most out of this experience—and who should think twice.

1
Wildlife EnthusiastsIdeal for travelers who want direct, educational interaction with birds of prey and value close observation of raptor behavior.
2
Experiential LearnersSuited to people who prefer hands‑on instruction—participants are taught the art of falconry and practice techniques during the day.
3
PhotographersGreat for photographers seeking dramatic wildlife moments framed by Descanso Canyon and the Pacific; the program creates several photoable interactions with raptors.
4
Adventurous Day‑TrippersA compact, day‑focused activity that delivers a unique, skill‑based wildlife encounter—recommended for travelers looking for a single, memorable outing rather than a multi‑day commitment.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

The verified details emphasize hands‑on raptor work; participants should expect to engage directly with birds. Specific gear requirements were not listed in the provided summary—confirm any recommended items with the operator before arrival.

Location & Setting

The activity takes place in Descanso Canyon with views of the Pacific—plan for sun exposure and canyon terrain.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

What is the Falconry Experience?

It is a hands‑on program in Descanso Canyon where participants learn the art of falconry and interact directly with trained raptors—holding, casting and calling them back.

Where does the experience take place?

The activity is set in Descanso Canyon with a Pacific Ocean backdrop on Catalina Island, near Avalon.

What will I do during the session?

Participants receive instruction in falconry techniques, handle raptors, practice casting, and call birds back under supervision.

Will I get photographic opportunities?

Yes—participants capture memorable moments as they hold and work with the birds against the canyon and Pacific backdrop.

Do I need prior falconry experience?

The program is instructional and teaches the art of falconry during the day, with hands‑on guidance provided to participants.