Falcon Store

Falcons on display in the market

On Saturday Tim and Simon went to run a few errands in the Souq Waqif. They were looking for lemon cashews and bolt cutters. They found falcons instead.  The "Falcon Souq" has been recently renovated and there are now 14 shops selling falcons and falcon supplies. Simon was amazed at the metal stands you can buy with a pillow on top for the falcon to sit on. They are for displaying your falcon in your home.

Simon holding a one year old falcon

Falcons are the national bird of Qatar and falconry is a very popular sport for the local people. Traditionally the falcons were used for hunting food but now they are a leisure past-time. There is a hunting competition in the desert each year. We have seen these majestic birds of prey in malls and cars and shops. They are heavier to hold than they look but a very gentle, quiet bird. We hope to see them in competition very soon.