Under majestic wings
One of the absolute highlights of Hohenwerfen Castle is the impressive birds of prey show staged by the historic regional falconry center. Falcons, vultures, eagles and other local birds of prey show their flying skills several times a day and give an insight into the great century-old art of falconry.
Flight shows with birds of prey 2024
April to 14 July: 11.15 a.m. and 3.15 p.m.
15 July to 16 August: 11.15 a.m., 2.15 and 4.30 p.m.
17 August to 3 November: 11.15 a.m. and 3.15 p.m.
Falconry demonstration: Duration depending on the weather up to 25 minutes.
No Falconry demonstrations from 10. - 13. October 2024
Closed on Monday in April, October and November. Except public holidays.
The historic regional falconry center
The great art of falconry
The long-established regional falconry center at Hohenwerfen Castle consists of the falconry museum, a historical falcon room and an open ground on the linden meadow where demonstrations take place. The main objective is to promote an understanding of nature, from which many people are very alienated today.
There are spacious facilities available for the birds, which are however not accessible to visitors: Here the birds are looked after according to the strict regulations of the Austrian animal protection law. There are outdoor, tower and winter aviaries in the large loft and a working falcon room in the Lindenhaus, where the birds are prepared for training and for the demonstrations.
The role of the falconer
The professional falconers who work at Hohenwerfen have passed the hunters and falconers’ license exam, and some also have forestry or veterinary training. The falconers’ flats are in the Lindenhaus, in the middle of the falconry center, in order to guarantee the best possible care for the birds.
The art of falconry requires a lot of empathy and sensitivity. All-round care of the birds requires love of, passion for and extensive knowledge about the biology and behavior of birds of prey. Falconry and husbandry of birds of prey is very time-consuming and can sometimes be disappointing. Above all, it is not an occasional hobby, it’s a job for life.
How do I behave properly when dealing with trained raptors in the wild?
- You can recognize EVERY trained raptor by the leather straps and by the little bell on their legs.
- Raptors are shy animals – enjoy observing and watching them!
- If a trained raptor sits in front of you on the ground, keep your distance and DO NOT try to lure it or touch it!
- Do not throw things such as stones at the raptor!
- Avoid using a selfie-stick! Raptors confuse these with a place to land and they can become seriously injured!
