Around 1,000 poorly birds of prey from Bahrain and neighbouring Gulf countries have received treatment over the past 12 months at the renowned Bahrain Falcon Hospital.
This is double the number the specialised facility catered for when it opened six years ago in Al Wasmiya in Zallaq to provide comprehensive healthcare for the majestic feathered winged favourites.
“Every year we are seeing an increase in the number of registered birds at the centre,” the hospital’s supervisor and falconer Bader Al Hajri told the GDN. “During the hunting season, which runs from the end of August to February, we received an average of 15 to 20 falcons per day for a range of different treatments, including infections, repairs, damaged features, dehydration, major surgeries and routine check-ups.
Season
“Starting next month, we will see fewer falcons arriving for treatment as the moulting season begins. Owners are normally advised to bring their falcon to the hospital twice-a-year, once before the moulting season and again after this period.”
Moulting is an annual phenomenon that starts from approximately March and can last until the end of September. It is when a bird replaces some (partial moult) or all (full moult) of its feathers.
This complicated process requires a lot of energy and is one of the most critical times during a falcon’s life cycle; successful moulting is essential for optimal performance.
Mr Hajri, who owns around 60 falcons of his own, also noted that competitiveness in races held primarily in Dubai, had grown significantly tougher as a result of specialist breeding processes.
“The thing with breeding is that you can pick and know which birds have the most endurance and perform the best,” he said.
“Owners are now getting the best possible outcome with high performing birds increasing the standards of competition.
“It also means that owners are not just focusing on the quantity of birds but their quality.”
Falcons are a symbol of courage and force in Arab countries. They not only act as a thriving business in the region but also offer a proud legacy that represents Gulf culture.
The birds boast excellent sight, with a normal vision of Arabian falcons recorded as 2.6 times greater than human vision and are known to be the fastest divers on the planet. They dive at prey at a speed of approximately 320kmph.
On average, a falcon costs between BD1,500 and BD4,000 although the most desired can fetch more than BD75,000.
At the hospital, the GDN witnessed a falcon undergoing an endoscopy, which is carried out to check on the condition of its liver, kidneys and lungs.
Some are known to suffer from aspergillosis, an infection that affects the respiratory system.
Other owners brought their birds of prey for treatment due to dehydration, vomiting or a lack of appetite.
“We also have falcons receive regular check-up packages, which includes the trimming of nails, beak, plus vaccines and other health tests.
“It’s important that they get their nails and beaks clipped to ensure eating does not become difficult. Furthermore, if the nails become overgrown, it might result in bumblefoot, a condition that causes inflammation and infection that in some circumstances can be difficult to treat.”
The Bahrain Falcon Hospital, which has around 3,000 registered falcons, is equipped with the latest radiography equipment, a fully-equipped laboratory where blood tests could be performed for the falcons along with a full range of health services such as pre-purchase health checks, soft tissue and orthopaedic surgeries.
The hospital is able to import medicines necessary for the healthcare and maintenance of the falcons that are otherwise unavailable in Bahrain, while also having several shops dedicated to falcon accessories, vitamins, food and supplements, as well as educating falconers and providing them with additional information.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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