Ex-racehorse finds new career in falconry

Here at H&C towers we are aware of the versatility of ex-racehorse, having watched them in excel in everything from eventing to showing, and horseball to polo. But faloncry?

Ancient art

This ancient art is rarely seen in the UK today, but Martin Whitley at Dartmoor Hawkingregularly flies his falcons and eagles from the back of his ex-racehorse, William Percival.

According to Martin, horses provides a quicker means of transport than his own two legs,so he can cover more ground. They also offer a higher vantage point.

Quick on their feet

“Thoroughbreds are quick on their feet, and can look after themselves on uneven terrain,” Martin told H&C. “You can’t do falconry on a horse that needs nursemaiding, and it gives a great second life to an ex-racehorse.

“He’s the second one I’ve used for falconry, but he is the only horse in the country flying an eagle.”

Check out the photos of William Percival below. Do you have a retrained racehorse or rescue horse with an unusual new career? Let us know!