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Discover the thrill of flying hawks firsthand in central Ohio with the Walk with Hawks falconry program. Learn to fly magnificent raptors and engage with a centuries-old tradition close to Columbus.
Discover the thrill of flying hawks firsthand in central Ohio with the Walk with Hawks falconry program. Learn to fly magnificent raptors and engage with a centuries-old tradition close to Columbus.
Book with The Ohio School of Falconry
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Operated by The Ohio School of Falconry · Columbus, Ohio
Located just outside Columbus, Ohio, Camp Mary Orton offers a rare chance to connect with falconry, a tradition that stretches back centuries yet remains remarkably vibrant here in the Midwest. The Walk with Hawks (Falconry 201) experience invites guests into the open fields and gentle woodlands of central Ohio to witness and participate in the ancient art of falconry firsthand. This program goes beyond watching majestic hawks in flight—it immerses you in the delicate partnership between human and bird, highlighting the important ecological role these raptors play. As you stand in the crisp air, an expert falconer guides you through the process of flying a hawk from glove to lure, teaching you how patience, timing, and respect are essential skills for this unique sport.
The environment around Camp Mary Orton features rolling meadows dotted with native Ohio hardwoods, a landscape well-suited for raptor flights and observations. Central Ohio’s diverse ecosystem supports various raptor species, and the hawks you work with are carefully trained yet wild-spirited, offering a glimpse into centuries-old traditions and modern conservation efforts. This hands-on experience stands out in the region because it combines education, outdoor adventure, and wildlife connection all in one accessible location just minutes from Columbus. Nature lovers and aspiring falconers alike find this program deeply rewarding, fostering a keen appreciation for Ohio's natural heritage.
Falconry here is more than an activity; it's a living link to local history and ecological stewardship. Visitors leave with new knowledge about raptor behavior, conservation challenges, and the subtle art of communicating with these birds. Whether you’re a local or a traveler from afar, the Walk with Hawks experience at Camp Mary Orton enriches your understanding of Ohio’s skies and wild spaces in a way few other outdoor activities can.
moderate.
2–3 hours.
Moderate fitness required as you will stand and walk short distances over uneven ground.
No prior experience is needed; the program is designed for beginners and provides full guidance.
You’ll work with trained red-tailed hawks and occasionally other local raptors depending on availability.
Children 12 and older can participate, but all must be supervised and comfortable around large birds.
Wear long sleeves, sturdy closed-toe shoes, and bring gloves if you have them; some equipment is also provided.
Sessions generally run spring through fall; availability in winter months depends on weather conditions.
Yes, photography is allowed but always follow instructions to avoid disturbing the birds or interfering with training.
Falconry has roots in Ohio dating back to Native American traditions and early European settlers, preserving a unique cultural legacy.
The program emphasizes raptor conservation and environmental stewardship to protect Ohio's wildlife habitats.
The Ohio School of Falconry, based in Columbus, Ohio, offers hands-on falconry experiences and raptor education across central Ohio. The school runs programs at Camp Mary Orton (Columbus), the Izaak Walton League (Medina), and Camp Kern (Oregonia). Participants encounter trained hawks, falcons, and owls in sessions designed for photographers, families, and nature enthusiasts. Offerings include introductory courses (Falconry 101), intermediate walks with hawks (Falconry 201), owl-focused encounters (Falconry 301), and a dedicated photography day (Falconry 501) led by Master Falconer Joe Dorrian. Sessions vary from about 1.5 hours to 3 hours, giving guests hands-on time with birds in perched and free-flight settings. Instruction emphasizes raptor behavior, handling fundamentals, and the ecological role of birds of prey. The Ohio School of Falconry integrates conservation education into each experience, explaining species significance and habitat needs. Programs include opportunities to photograph raptors, learn to call a hawk to a glove or lure, and handle select owl species such as barn owls and larger Eurasian owls where available. Safety protocols and experienced handlers are present during every session. Equipment and handling techniques follow established falconry practices. The school serves participants aged nine and up for specific programs and tailors content to skill level and interest. As a regional provider of falconry experiences, The Ohio School of Falconry focuses on education, ethical raptor interactions, and memorable field-based experiences across central Ohio venues. Programs accommodate photographers and families while highlighting raptor conservation, bird identification, seasonal behavior, and ethical wildlife observation practices across all sites and outreach.
Book with The Ohio School of Falconry