New Book: European Sparrowhawks

[Ben Crane]

This is a new book on European Sparrowhawks including trapping, wild take, imprinting, hawking, breeding and many MANY other subjects. With contributions from IAF representatives in Croatia, Ireland, Turkey and the UK it is a no nonsense, common sense approach to flying these little accipiters. It should be available in about 6 months time.

[bluejack]

I'm looking forward to this one.

[Steve L.]

How does it compare to Mavrogordato's book?

[Ben Crane]

I suppose times change, as do methods and means. Comparisons are not always helpful. The contributors and myself are hopefully adding to the cannon and sharing knowledge, rather than competing. I personally prefer Liam O'Broins book. Which is good as he is in this one, along with Rowland Eustace and the other members of the Irish Hawking club who have done so much for sparrowhawking in europe. There is certainly a tremendous amount of unique aspects to the content, as my experiences, as well as all the others is very different from yesteryear and although I deeply respect history (as the book describes and shows), it is nice to build upon the past and broaden the voices that share our collective passion.

[Tony James]

Hi Ben,

it's years since I last flew a spar, but they remain one of my favourites, and one day, perhaps, I'll find myself flying them again.
I bought A Hawk for the Bush from Jack Mavro, and A Manual for Hawking from Liam, so I'll hope to bump into you (in May perhaps?) to pick up a signed copy

It's interesting that Steve L asks how it compares to Mavro's book, which comparison of course has been made with Liam's book for the last 17 years or so.
It's a question that highlights how few books have been published specifically about sparrowhawks in the last half century.

I wish you well with it, and please put me down for a copy.

Best wishes,

Tony.

[Ben Crane]

It's interesting that Steve L asks how it compares to Mavro's book, which comparison of course has been made with Liam's book for the last 17 years

Tony.

There is an inevitable predictability regarding comparisons and/or who is best type discussions. I knew from the moment I started that these would occur. I look on this project as 'standing on the shoulders of giants' and adding new information rather than competing. Who was the 'best' boxer, ali or tyson, joe louis or jack dempsey, was edmund bert better than turberville, what about McDermott v's Perkins or Hollinshead v's McElroy? It never ends really. Ultimately it does not mater as long as the information is there for people to own and access. The real learning comes from the field and the overlap of information between sources regardless of which is 'best'

But the very fact that my name and others is even MENTIONED in the same breath as Marvo and O'Broin then I am happy. In fact I have thanked them both in the opening pages. To sign a copy for you, who met them both, is Tony a rare honour........WOW.

[Paul leeming]

Please bump me in to, looks good,

Thanks

[FredFogg]

I want the book, will it be for sale by any of our online falconry providers here in the States (Western Sporting, Mikes Falconry, etc?) Would love to get a few breeding pairs and make some so folks over here could fly them!

[Ben Crane]

I want the book, will it be for sale by any of our online falconry providers here in the States (Western Sporting, Mikes Falconry, etc?) Would love to get a few breeding pairs and make some so folks over here could fly them!

Hi Fred, On sale via amazon and no doubt nearer the time I will promote it via various shops and retailers.

[hcmcelroy]

20 contributors, Wow! I look forward to a copy keep us informed.

Harry.

[fehgan101]

Got my copy. I must say you've done an awesome job Ben.Read most of it and its great!!

[skooky20]

how can i get a copy of this book?

[FredFogg]

how can i get a copy of this book?

Me too!!!!

[mainefalconer]

I'll second Stuart's comment. The book looks great! Lots of information. Lots of contributors. Great photos. Nicely presented. Well done Mr. Crane! I was up far too late flipping through it the other night.

[parabuteo.de]

Just ordered mine!

[americansharpy]

Received my book, its a wonderful addition to the literature. Congrats

[ukroper]

I will have copies of this book with me in Kansas this year,at the NAFA meet..

Order in advance and you will pay no postage costs..ill bring um for free

[ukroper]