Colorado Springs: Falconry Class & Hands-On Bird Demo

Summary

Falconry in Colorado Springs with real birds flying free and glove-on moments

You’ll get close enough to feel a real falcon’s weight on your arm during this hands-on class near Colorado Springs. Learn from a licensed falconer in a small group, watch hawks fly free over open fields, and hear stories about ancient traditions. It’s not just watching — you’ll actually put on the glove yourself.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I was late because I couldn’t find the right turnoff — my phone kept rerouting me past some field that looked like every other field outside Colorado Springs. By the time I got there, our guide (his name’s Mike, or maybe Mark? I’m terrible with names) just grinned and said, “You made it. The birds don’t mind waiting.” That set the tone: low-key, no pressure, just this quiet excitement in the air. You could hear hawks somewhere out behind the barn, sharp calls cutting through that dry morning smell.

We started off inside, not in some fancy classroom but more like a shed with old posters and leather gloves hanging everywhere. Mike/Mark (I should’ve asked again) had us sit on benches while he introduced us to the different birds — owls with those weirdly intense eyes, a couple of hawks who seemed bored until they weren’t, and a falcon that looked like it was judging all of us. He told stories about how falconry’s older than most religions, which honestly made me see these birds differently. There was this moment when he let one of the hawks hop onto his arm — you could actually feel everyone hold their breath for a second.

Then we headed outside. It was colder than I expected; my hands went numb holding the glove they gave me. The best part? Watching one of the hawks fly out over the grass and then swoop back when called — not because it had to, but because it wanted to (that’s what Mike/Mark kept saying). When it was my turn to put on the glove and hold the Saker Falcon, I tried not to flinch but wow — those talons are no joke. The bird felt heavier than I thought, warm and alive on my arm. Someone tried to take a photo but honestly I just wanted to stand there for another minute.

I never thought I’d care much about falconry classes near Colorado Springs — it sounded kind of random when I booked it — but now whenever I hear birds overhead at home, I think about that morning and wonder what they’re seeing from up there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Falconry class and flying demonstration

• Learn about hawks, falcons, and owls
• Watch hawks flown in countryside
• Hold trained Saker Falcon with glove

Top questions

How long does the Colorado Springs falconry class last?

The class lasts about an hour and a half.

Do you get to hold a real falcon during this experience?

Yes, each participant can put on a glove and hold a trained Saker Falcon.

Is transportation included for this falconry class?

An air-conditioned vehicle is provided as part of your day.

Are beginners welcome at this Colorado Springs falconry class?

Yes, this is designed for beginners with no prior experience needed.

What types of birds will we see during the demonstration?

You’ll meet eagles, owls, hawks, and falcons during the session.

Is bottled water provided during the activity?

Bottled water is included for participants.

Who leads the falconry demonstration?

A licensed falconer oversees and presents each experience.

Are gratuities included in the price?

Yes, gratuities are included in your booking.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water for everyone, transport in an air-conditioned vehicle out to the countryside near Colorado Springs where you’ll meet your licensed falconer guide. Gratuities are already covered so you don’t have to worry about tipping after your hands-on lesson with live birds.