If you're in Scotland and feel like trying your hand at the art of falconry, make your way to Jedforest Deer and Farm Park. This modern working farm with rare breeds of sheep, pigs, and cattle is also home to Falconry Scotland, one of Scotland's finest providers of falconry services. Now, falconry is a lot more than the subject of a funny Saturday Night Live skit, it's a practice that dates back more than two thousand years involving the use of trained birds of prey for hunting or tracking purposes. And even if you don't want to do any serious hunting during an afternoon at Jedforest, you can still interact with some of the most magnificent birds to be found anywhere. Falcons, hawks, eagles, and owls (pictured) are used in daily birds of prey demonstrations, and handling sessions are provided at no extra cost to the entrance fee of the park. For an even closer encounter, book a hawk walk, where you'll learn to handle and fly a hawk while taking in the scenic Scottish countryside, or learn about the habitat and hunting prowess of owls on an owl encounter. Of course, if you do want to try your hand at hunting with a falcon, guided half-day, full day, and evening countryside hunting excursions are available. The sight of one of these expert hunters swooping down on a rabbit, hare, or game bird in excess of 100 miles per hour is something you'll never forget. The Jedforest Deer & Farm Park is located about 90 minutes from the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh.
