I would like to begin by…

I would like to begin by expressing my support of the proposal Environmental Registry of Ontario (ERO)# 019-1806. My introduction with falconry began with my father as he is a licensed Ontario falconer. I’ve physically encountered up close many species of falcons and hawks (feeding off of my fist under the watchful eye of my father) that most people are not aware live, let alone seen, in Ontario! I also had the privilege of being out in the field with falconers to see these magnificent predators engage in their wild setting. This thrilling bond with falconry that my father has provided me created an encounter with nature so intimate and within such a natural setting that most people will never experience. I count myself very fortunate to have shared in this relationship between wild bird and human that it has impacted my view on nature itself. I myself have not pursued falconry because of the effort and time that needs to be devoted to care for a raptor and the meticulous training for hunting which I have seen first-hand from my father’s commitment, “the hawk is paramount, your primary focus”. But it did impart a longing for nature and which led me to becoming a fisherman, hunter, and ultimately a conservationist, and this I am very thankful to my father and falconry! ERO# 019-1806 would deepen our knowledge of birds of prey and strengthen raptor conservation which is a proactive approach to wildlife management. After reading the proposal this enhancement to Ontario falconry will have zero impact on the species considered to be captured. But more importantly will have a positive impact on the general public, knowledge regarding the traditional art of falconry and birds of prey would be shared by falconers, this would develop more stewards of our environment and provide the opportunity intimacy felt by the falconer herself. I foresee Falconry, a cultural heritage, will encourage the general public in becoming conservationists like myself. Thank you for the chance to comment on this proposal and support its implementation.