Freedom!

Today I was privileged to be invited to the release of a very special bird, who had been taken to an animal rescue centre after an accident.

The bird is a juvenile Goshawk. He has been treated, rehabilitated and readied for release.

I was lucky to witness and be part of this special moment.

After a few words, the handler, a registered falconer, undid the ties and waited for the bird to realise he was no longer tethered. 

Then he was off.

No ceremony, no goodbyes, just a flap of his powerful wings and he was gone.

We watched as he circled and alighted upon a nearby tree. Probably getting his bearings.

He was in excellent condition and had learned to hunt and kill his prey. His next meal. It is clear he is in a good position to survive after a month or so of captivity.

Good luck young man

Fly free...