Situated in the Avon Valley of South Lanarkshire, just outside Strathaven, I offer a unique hands-on falconry experience, deliver talks to schools and voluntary groups, and offer tuition in the art of falconry.
Who Am I
image courtesy of Alan Scott @albyscott33
Hello. I’m Calum Maider, owner of Avon Valley Falconry, which I founded over 30 years ago after working at the falconry centre in Blair Drummond Safari Park.
Since then, I have bred, trained and flown a wide range of raptors - including Gyr/Sakers, Peregrine Falcons, Harris’s Hawks, American Kestrels and Goshawks. I have also bred, hand-reared, and flown a variety of owls. I am actively involved in retraining raptors who are the result of criminal neglect cases. Many of the children I work with have additional needs or are in the care system, and I find supporting these young people through falconry deeply rewarding.
Whether I am training a Peregrine Falcon, Goshawk or hand rearing an owlet I am passionate about sharing the art and tradition of falconry. My focus is on building connections between people and birds of prey, ensuring every encounter is memorable and respectful of these remarkable creatures. Let’s experience the world of raptors together.
What I Do
Hawk Walk 4hrs
Age 9+ | 1-4 people
£100
- introduction to a variety of birds of prey
- safe handling skills and basic falconry techniques
- walk and call male Harris's Hawks, Spirit or Jäger, to your fist
- fly our female Harris's Hawks, Cora or Talla, during a walk in the countryside
- option to fly Star, our European Eagle Owl who boasts a 5 foot wing span and weight of over 4lbs
- opportunity to meet and photograph a variety of birds of prey
- during breeding season April-August, there may be owlets to handle
Hawk Walk 1.5hrs
Age 4+ | 1-4 people
£45
- introduction to a variety of birds of prey
- safe handling skills and basic falconry techniques
- walk and call male Harris's Hawks, Spirit or Jäger, to your fist
- opportunity to meet and photograph a variety of birds of prey
- during breeding season April-August, there may be owlets to handle
Suitable for children, elderly, and mobility impaired.
Photography
Photographers and photography clubs are welcome to enjoy the the challenge of capturing our raptors, static or in-flight.
Schools and Groups
We are pleased too liaise with schools and voluntary groups to provide talks.
Tuition
If you enjoy your visit and wish to take things further, we offer tuition in the art of falconry.
Gift Voucher
Looking for a unique gift? Treat someone special to an unforgettable experience with our Hawk Walk gift vouchers — available for 1.5-hour or 4-hour sessions, for up to 4 people.
Experience
Followers
Gallery
A gallery celebrating the beauty and character of the birds I work with — from owls to hawks and falcons. Each image a reminder that falconry is such a remarkable tradition.
