Adventure Brief
Stand shoulder-to-wing with a trained hawk in this small-group falconry encounter near Animal Ark. Learn raptor biology, conservation, and field-handling during a one-hour Hawk Walk.
1 hour
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Stand shoulder-to-wing with a trained hawk in this small-group falconry encounter near Animal Ark. Learn raptor biology, conservation, and field-handling during a one-hour Hawk Walk.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The walk begins under wide Nevada sky. Scrub sage and ponderosa pines frame a small gazebo beside Animal Ark; a licensed falconer fits you with a leather gauntlet and a trained hawk sizes you up with bright, hunting eyes. The bird shifts from perch to your arm with the soft authority of a practiced athlete — wings beating, talons finding the glove — and for a moment the human and raptor are linked by a single, deliberate exchange.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for most people who can stand and walk short distances; no special fitness required.
Wildlife
History
Falconry is an ancient practice that in Nevada has shifted toward education and rehabilitation, using trained birds to teach local ecology and conservation.
Conservation
The program supports raptor conservation through education and by highlighting rehabilitation efforts that return injured birds to the wild when possible.
Reserve your spot on the Experience Raptors and Falconry in Reno today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress for contact
Wear long sleeves and closed-toe shoes to protect your arms and feet when handling a raptor.
Follow the falconer’s lead
Listen closely and move deliberately — the handler’s cues keep both you and the bird safe.
Skip flash photography
Use a camera without flash to avoid startling birds during flight demonstrations.
Hydrate and protect from sun
Bring water and sun protection; sessions are outdoors and can be exposed to direct sun.
Closed-toe shoes
Protects feet during the walk and when moving through uneven ground.
Long-sleeve shirt or light jacket
Shields forearms from talons and provides extra protection during handling.
Sunscreen and hat
Essential for daytime sessions exposed to sun and reflective surfaces.
summer
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated keeps you comfortable during the outdoor portion of the program.