1st Asian Falconry Festival: Celebrating Heritage and Conservation of Birds of Prey
Falconry holds a profound historical significance in Central Asia, with Mongolians boasting a rich heritage in this ancient practice. Historical accounts dating back 4,000 years narrate tales of Bodanchir, who tamed hawks for hunting purposes in Mongolia’s secret bureau, and even the illustrious Genghis Khan and his grandson Khubilai Khan were avid practitioners of falconry, as documented by Marco Polo. Today, falconry is recognized as a valuable intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO and is actively promoted across 18 countries worldwide. With more than 110 member organizations under the International Association for Falconry and Conservation of Birds of Prey, including prominent regions like the United States, Europe, and the Middle East, efforts to preserve and protect this heritage are widespread.
In line with promoting falconry heritage in Asian countries, the inaugural Khubilai Khan 1st Asian Falconry Festival was held in Mongolia from September 20-24, 2024. The 2nd Asian Falconry Festival will take place in three years either in Mongolia or another Asian country.
The festival aimed to promote and safeguard falconry heritage and birds of prey conservation, as well as Mongolia’s unique cultural heritage, both globally and nationally. The festival also building the foster cooperation among falconers and conservationists, and showcase Mongolia’s unique falconry heritage.
This festival is slated to become a triennial tradition, highlighting various aspects of heritage culture to a global audience. Moreover, as part of this year’s festival, Mongolia has been chosen to host the meeting of the International Association for Falconry and Conservation of Birds of Prey, demonstrating the country’s commitment to conservation and heritage preservation. This aligns seamlessly with Mongolia’s broader tourism initiatives, as declared by the Government of Mongolia, designating 2023-2025 as the “Visit Mongolia Year.”
Five main activities of the festival, namely, Council Delegates 56th Meeting, International Falconry Conference, The Khubilai Khan’s Asian 1st Falconry Festival, Educational and conservation activities for children and public, Sharing experiences on the conservation of the birds of prey in participating in a bird-watching tour were organized between September 20th and 23rd.
