With the onset of October, the northern regions of Saudi Arabia have welcomed the annual falcon-trapping season, drawing trappers across vast open terrains to monitor migration corridors in a practice rooted in the Kingdom’s deep falconry heritage.
Activity is largely concentrated in the Al-Hammad plains east of Arar and Al-Uwayqilah in Northern Borders Region, where changing weather patterns and seasonal rains create optimal conditions for tracking birds of prey along their seasonal flyways.
Falcon trapper Nafe’ Al-Shammari stated that field preparations commenced on October 1, noting that trappers have deployed across multiple sites north of Al-Uwayqilah, where successful captures have already been recorded this season. Trapper Mohammed Al-Anzi noted that his operations span a 30- to 60-kilometer radius around Hazm Al-Jalamid, moving dynamically across key terrain such as Al-Arqat, Al-Buhairat, Al-Abyad, Al-Masousi, and surrounding ravines based on bird sightings. He added that while trapping typically begins at dawn, monitoring continues throughout the day into the late afternoon.
Beyond preserving traditional wilderness tracking, the season generates vital economic activity through the National Center for Falcons’ official auction, running from October 1 to November 30. Trappers adhere strictly to environmental regulations designed to protect wildlife while sustaining traditional heritage.
The National Center for Falcons provides comprehensive logistical support throughout the season, deploying specialized field teams across Northern Borders and other regions to receive trappers, arrange accommodations, and transport captured falcons to its live, broadcasted auctions.
Source: Riyadh Daily