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Experience the thrill of falconry at the Izaak Walton League in Medina, Ohio. Learn hawk-handling skills and enjoy hands-on time with these magnificent birds in a beautiful woodland setting.
Experience the thrill of falconry at the Izaak Walton League in Medina, Ohio. Learn hawk-handling skills and enjoy hands-on time with these magnificent birds in a beautiful woodland setting.
Book with The Ohio School of Falconry
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Operated by The Ohio School of Falconry · Medina, Ohio
Located near Columbus, Ohio, the Izaak Walton League in Medina offers a distinctive falconry experience that stands apart in the Midwest’s outdoor scene. This 2.5 to 3-hour adventure invites participants to engage deeply with raptors, primarily hawks, within a lush woodland setting that embraces Ohio’s native flora and fauna. The Izaak Walton League grounds provide a serene backdrop of mature trees and natural undergrowth, creating ideal conditions for these majestic birds to soar and respond to their falconers. This falconry program is more than just an outdoor activity—it provides hands-on education about hawk behavior, training techniques, and conservation principles that are rarely accessible to the public.
Participants receive expert guidance on the fundamentals of falconry, including how to call a hawk to the glove—a thrilling highlight that connects you to an ancient human-nature partnership dating back thousands of years. The variety of hawk species encountered reflects regional raptor populations and enhances understanding of their ecological role. Beyond the flight and handling, instructors share insights about the Izaak Walton League's mission to protect wildlife habitats and promote ethical outdoor practices, contributing to responsible stewardship of this vibrant ecosystem.
This falconry course draws both curious novices and seasoned outdoor enthusiasts eager for an unusual encounter with birds of prey. Its location in Medina places it conveniently close to Columbus, making it accessible for city dwellers seeking immersive wildlife experiences. The woodland’s quiet trails and native birdsong complete an inspiring outdoor setting where patience and respect for wildlife meet exhilarating moments of flight. Whether you’re fascinated by birds, wildlife conservation, or unique outdoor skills, Walk with Hawks provides a rare opportunity to deepen your connection to nature in central Ohio.
moderate.
2.5–3 hours.
Moderate physical condition recommended; able to walk and stand outdoors for several hours
No prior experience is needed; the course is designed for beginners with expert instruction.
Participants should be adults or older teens; check with the organizers for age restrictions.
Wear long sleeves, sturdy shoes, and bring gloves if you have them; layered clothing is recommended.
Yes, activities are held outdoors and may be rescheduled in case of severe weather.
Photography might be allowed with permission; flash and sudden movements should be avoided to protect birds.
No, the hawks are trained birds kept by licensed falconers and are not available for adoption.
Falconry dates back millennia and was historically used for hunting; this program continues the tradition as a sport and conservation tool.
The Izaak Walton League emphasizes habitat preservation and ethical wildlife interaction to support raptor populations in Ohio.
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