Falconry was brought back to Europe by the returning Crusaders almost a thousand years ago. It is a sport steeped in tradition and lore. The falconry performed by the small group of Falconers in Island County is slightly shorter on the tradition. But the start to many of the hunts centers around Kirk's 40 acre 'farm' on Whidbey Island. Kirk generally flies, as do I, the 'pickup truck' of American falconry - a Red-Tailed hawk. Also 'regulars' at our gatherings are Steve and his son Seth. As 'Master falconers' both surely are some of the best falconers in the USA, if not the world. Between Seth and his father I have seen them fly Red-tails, Northern Goshawks, Finnish Goshawks and a Coopers Hawk. Occasionally the fifth falconer, Todd, flies his Red-tail.

With the hawks sporting their 'flying jesses' and radio transmiters clipped to their tail mounts it is time to start the hunt. The dogs are sent into the bramble and bushes to flush the rabbits. I cast Maru up into the surrouding trees. She will follow around us as the dogs, and us, beat through the brambles and bushes of the area!

Sooner or later a rabbit makes a mistake and breaks into a dash across an open space or creeps away in poorly covered brush. and the Maru launches from her perch and stoops down for the strike.

Sometimes the strike is in very dense bush and brambles. Sometimes it is so thick that only with the aid of telerimetry and the jingle of her bells can I find Maru on her quarry. Only Western Washington Austingers can apprciate the importance of protective chaps, jackets and gloves while slashing ones way into a bramble patch to reach a hawk.

Once found I either quickly dispatch the 'thumper' or entices Maru off with garnishing and so that the rabbit can be either set free or bagged for hawk food for the non hunting season.

After the successful hunt, a sip from a flask of whiskey is the tradition for the falconers. ...and once the day is over, it is time for the final gathering in Kirk's kitchen, for a glass of wine, and a sampling of his fine cooking.