The Saudi Falcons Club’s International Falcon Breeders Auction 2024 is underway in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and will continue until August 24. The prestigious event has brought together 35 breeding farms from over 16 countries, attracting a global audience of falconry enthusiasts. This year’s auction showcases a diverse range of breeders, highlighting the international reach and growing popularity of falconry.
Key participants include the UK’s Sky Raiders Breeding Farm, managed by Pete and Dan, known for their modern and dynamic approach to falconry. They have introduced falcons known for their superior performance in both natural settings and competitive races. Sky Raiders is also making significant changes to its facilities to support innovative breeding programs, a testament to the club’s evolving practices.
Joining Sky Raiders is Canada’s Falcon Farms 2020, operated by John Lejeune and his siblings Monica and Otto. Falcon Farms 2020 holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest gyrfalcon breeding operation. Established in the 1970s, the farm has been a pioneer in falcon breeding, offering a wealth of knowledge and historical depth to the auction.
The auction has consistently attracted attention for its impressive sales figures. In 2021, a falcon fetched an astounding SAR 1.75 million, contributing to total earnings exceeding SAR 18 million since the auction’s inception.
This year’s event marks a significant moment for both Sky Raiders Breeding Farm and Falcon Farms 2020 as they both participate in the Saudi Falcons Club’s International Falcon Breeders Auction for the first time. Their participation reinforces Saudi Arabia’s role as a global hub for falconry and its commitment to preserving this ancient sport. Riyadh has become a crucial meeting point for falcon breeders worldwide, fostering collaboration and promoting the conservation and preservation of falconry culture.
