Living on the outskirts of Shamalgan village, this family of Kazakh hunters has a unique tool for hunting prey – specially-trained golden eagles.
While hunting with birds of prey was largely abandoned during the Soviet era, the traditional craft has been revived through national competitions. The nation’s best hunters compare their eagles’ accuracy and skill by unleashing them on a variety of targets, ranging from rabbits to foxes.
This family of hunters keeps their birds fit for competition by practicing everyday. When weather permits, the hunters take birds with them on horseback, and hunt for foxes around the village.
After two to three hours of training, the birds eat around 400 to 500 grams of meat.
With a wingspan of more than six feet, razor-sharp talons and the ability to dive up to 190 miles per hour, the Kazakh eagle is one of the world’s fiercest.
Video Editor: Ashutosh Bhardwaj
Video Credits: Shamil Zhumatov
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