The National Falcon Center in the Mulham area, north of Riyadh, is hosting the International Falcon Breeding Farms Auction 2026. The event offers a variety of species and categories, including Gyr, Saker, Peregrine, and hybrids.
According to SPA, these species differ in size, color, body structure, and performance, which helps falconers select birds based on their specific needs and goals.
Samer Thiab Al-Sulaimi, a representative of a participating domestic farm, stated that Gyr falcons are known for their large size, powerful body structure, and colors ranging from white to gray and dark tones. He noted that breeding farms develop different Gyr lines based on desired characteristics.
The Peregrine is recognized for its high speed, aerodynamic body, and pointed wings, making it popular for its flight and diving abilities. Meanwhile, the Saker is characterized by a powerful body structure and a long-standing connection to regional hunting and falconry culture.
Al-Sulaimi explained that production includes hybrid species that combine traits of more than one species, such as Gyr-Peregrine and Gyr-Saker-Peregrine hybrids, which are common in falconry competitions. Producers select breeding lines to achieve specific results in speed, size, color, or performance.
Falconers also consider the breeding line, individual characteristics, family history, and the purpose of ownership, as requirements for competition birds differ from those used in other falconry fields.
Where is the International Falcon Breeding Farms Auction 2026 taking place? The auction is being held at the National Falcon Center, which is located in the Mulham area to the north of Riyadh. The event features various falcon species and categories, including Gyr, Saker, Peregrine, and hybrid birds.
What are the characteristics of Gyr and Peregrine falcons according to the source? Gyr falcons are distinguished by their large size, powerful body structure, and a color palette that varies from white to gray and dark shades. Peregrine falcons are known for their aerodynamic body, pointed wings, and high speed, which provides them with significant diving and flight capabilities.
What are hybrid falcons and why are they produced? Hybrid falcons combine the characteristics of more than one species, with examples including Gyr-Peregrine and Gyr-Saker-Peregrine hybrids. Producers create these lines to achieve specific traits regarding performance, size, color, or speed, and they are frequently used in falconry competitions.