Etched on every coin and even on the Royal seal, falcons have historically been an integral and defining character of Emirati culture. Despite the immensely changing lifestyles and customs of the modern world, many people are keen to preserve the falcon’s place in day-to-day life. Making sure these phenomenal birds of prey coexist happily with man are Dr Margrit Muller, and her staff at the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital.
We hooked up with the World Falconry Tour for a visit to the hospital, as it takes its visitors to the outskirts of the city, near the Abu Dhabi International Airport. Away from the highrises and clustered streets, the falcon hospital stands serenely between palm trees and greenery. Walking into the lobby, we are immediately greeted by smiling people with falcons perched on their arms, as well as other pet owners. Despite the name, the centre is very active in caring for all kinds of pets, as well as facilitating the re-homing and adoption process for strays.
The hospital opened its doors on October 3, 1999, thanks to the efforts of the Environment Agency (EAD). As the first falcon hospital in the United Arab Emirates, today it attracts people with falcon pets from all over the region. Beginning as a falcon veterinary care unit, today it has evolved to provide care to all sorts of animals and the site is also an award-winning tourist destination. The centre has several sections catering to falcon and animal care, as well as relaxation spots. There are also areas available for hosting functions and special events, such as the Shaheen Conference Center.
If you visit the centre, you will most likely meet director Dr Muller, whose passion and dedication towards the care and preservation of these birds is obvious. The German doctor acts as a mobile encyclopedia about the animals, telling us about their integral role in local society. ‘The late president, HH Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan, used to have them as pets and we have many rare images of his highness and his birds,’ she smiles. ‘Using falcons in hunting is no longer allowed, so many people keep them as pets, and we quickly see them become part of the family.’
Dr. Muller walks us into the primary care unit, where there are approximately 40 falcons perched on little stands. All of them have their heads covered by a special hat covering their eyes, which helps keep the animals calm and docile.
We watch as a falcon is put to sleep using the same anaesthetic that is given to humans. Once the bird is unconscious, an attendant buffs and trims its claws, checks its wings, and trims down the sharp inner edges on their beaks. We are a bit surprised by this, but Dr Muller assures us that this would normally be done in the wild with the bird using wooden branches and barks, much like how rodents gnaw down their teeth. They also receive two injections of water in their legs. ‘The water is for hydration and you can see how quickly it gets absorbed,’ Dr Muller informs us.
‘One of the most challenging aspects we face when it comes to their care is finding tools to treat them medically. In fact, most of the instruments we use come from paediatrics,’ she says. As they evolve their health care for the falcons, the hospital also conducts research about the diseases that plague the species. The centre is fully furnished with the latest equipment and has so far published several studies about falcons in the medical world. Such efforts allow caregivers and vets to monitor and care for future generations more efficiently.
Without a doubt, the most rewarding element of the tour is holding the falcon on your arm. Only then can one truly appreciate the force that these birds are capable of. Having one on your arm gives you an instant sense of attachment and it is very easy to see how these animals quickly become beloved members of the family.
The efforts of Dr Muller and her staff go a long way to preserving this incredible species. While they are magnificent birds of prey, with incredible force and stamina, their innate strengths are no match for modern changes in habitat.
As an endangered species, Dr Muller says it’s vital word of the falcons’ plight is spread. ‘Through awareness, we are unlocking a way to keeping these great birds alive for future generations.’
Tours are held every day at 10am and 2pm. To learn more about the ADFH, visit www.falconhospital.com (02 575 5155). The Falcon Hospital tour is available through Arabian Adventures (02 691 1711).
