Gyrfalcon
by Don Balke
Title
Gyrfalcon
Artist
Don Balke
Medium
Painting - Watercolor On Cold Press Illustration Board
Description
The largest falcon in the world, the gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus) can reach up to two feet in length. Especially prized in falconry (the 4000-year-old sport of employing falcons in hunting game), the gyrfalcon is traditionally known as the "bird of kings." In medieval diplomacy, it played an important role as a valuable present. Even today, modern falconers often pay princely sums -- well into the many thousands of dollars -- for a single specimen. The gyrfalcon is an intensely capable bird: while the eagle often uses its large size to rob meals from other birds of prey, and the peregrine falcon counts on gravity to gain high speeds in a pursuit, the gyrfalcon relies on sheer raw power alone to capture its prey, usually in an intensive tail chase. Although slower than other falcons as it begins a chase, it quickly gains momentum and can outfly the fastest duck. The gyrfalcon's persistence and determination in pursuing its quarry distinguishes it from all other hunting birds and is key to its legendary status: it simply does not give up, following its chosen target until the fleeing creature is worn out, captured or lucky enough to find impregnable refuge. Its extremely keen eyesight -- many times that of man -- allows the gyrfalcon to spot all but the most well-camouflaged of prey. A noble bird revered worldwide for its courage, power and grace, the gyrfalcon is, fittingly, the official mascot of the U.S. Air Force Academy.
Please note the "Fine Art America" watermark will not appear on the painting or any print reproduction.
Artwork Copyright © 2003 Wind River Studios Holdings, Inc. All Rights Reserved under United States and international copyright laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, transmit, or otherwise exploit the Artwork in any way. Any sale of the physical original does not include or convey the Copyright or any right comprised in the Copyright. WRSH Stock Number XB17095
Uploaded
April 7th, 2022
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