Global falcon breeding farms gather at international auction near Riyadh

The International Falcon Breeding Farms Auction goes beyond simply displaying and selling falcons, as it brings together experiences and breeding schools from various countries at the National Falcon Center in Malham, north of Riyadh. Each farm presents its own bloodlines, breeding methods, and selection processes, turning the corridors between farms into spaces for comparing falcons and the expertise behind their production.

The falcons on display include gyrfalcons, peregrines, sakers, and various hybrids. The traits sought by breeders and falconers differ depending on the intended use: racing falcons are valued for their lineage, speed, fitness, and the achievements of their family, while beauty contest falcons are judged on size, color, head, wing, and chest symmetry, along with other qualities recognized by experienced handlers.

International farm participation highlights different approaches to developing these traits. For example, a Portuguese farm uses the 'Wild Hacking' method, releasing young falcons into the wild and windy highlands to build fitness before training. Other European farms focus on developing specialized racing lines based on the performance of parents and siblings.

Canadian, Finnish, and Scottish bloodlines are present alongside lines developed by farms over years of selective breeding. Local Saudi farms are also working to produce competitive falcons, taking advantage of the presence of international breeders and falconers to compare birds and monitor market trends.

The value of this diversity goes beyond the names of bloodlines. Each falcon carries the story of its farm, its upbringing, and the traits for which it was selected. The auction thus serves as a meeting point for multiple breeding schools, united by the goal of producing falcons that prove their quality after leaving the auction platform and entering the field of competition.

The International Falcon Breeding Farms Auction is open to visitors daily until August 25.