NASHVILLE ZOO FIELD GUIDE
Falconry 102 — Take the Glove: Hands‑On Raptor Work in Nashville
A focused, three‑hour workshop that turns aspiring handlers into active falconers for an afternoon—train, feed and fly your own bird of prey under expert supervision.
Falconry 102 — Take the Glove: Hands‑On Raptor Work in Nashville.
On a bright Nashville morning you move through the quiet routine of a working mews: checking birds, weighing and weathering them in the garden, and preparing rations before stepping into the intimate work of handling and flying a single raptor. This nuts‑and‑bolts class emphasizes practical husbandry and advanced flying techniques, including hands‑on time with an African Pied Crow, making it a rare apprenticeship‑style experience for those serious about falconry.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Man, Feed and Fly Your Own Bird
Participants take direct responsibility for one bird: fitting equipment, weighing, weathering in the garden, preparing its food (including gutting) and learning to pick up, carry and set the bird down safely.
Advanced Training and Flying
The workshop focuses on in‑depth training methods—tying the falconer’s knot, walking with the bird, and flying to the fist, lure or drone—skills aimed at conditioning and practical flight work.
Work with an African Pied Crow
Alongside traditional raptors, the session includes time with an African Pied Crow, expanding the usual scope of a falconry class and offering a distinctive hands‑on encounter.
What the day feels like
What an Afternoon Feels Like
The three‑hour session follows the rhythms of a falconer’s day: morning checks and preparations give way to intimate handling and progressively demanding flying drills. Instead of a broad historical lecture, the focus is on one bird at a time—preparing its ration, donning its equipment, practicing knots and carries, then working on flying sequences that may include the fist, a lure or even a drone—an intense, technical immersion in field‑craft.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this afternoon suits—and who should opt for something else.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The workshop runs three hours and is priced at $195 per person.
Sessions are limited in size (up to six participants). Participants must be at least 12 years old; under‑16s must attend with an adult. Younger guests may be accepted case by case.
Expect hands‑on equipment work—fitting gear, weighing birds and preparing their food (including gutting)—and active participation in handling and flying drills.
Do not book unless you have completed the Elite Immersive Experience or have spoken with the operator and been approved to attend this advanced, hands‑on workshop.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Falconry 102 session?
The experience lasts three hours.
What is the cost per person?
The session costs $195 per person.
Are there age restrictions?
Participants must be at least 12 years old; anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Younger participants are accepted only on a case‑by‑case basis.
Do I need prior experience to attend?
You should not purchase unless you have completed the Elite Immersive Experience or have spoken with the operator and been approved to attend this advanced hands‑on session.
Can an adult attend with a minor but not participate?
Yes—unpaid adults may accompany a minor but are not permitted to participate in the hands‑on activities.
How many people are in each session?
Groups are limited to up to six participants per session.