Castello di Vezio, Lake Como, Italy, 9/22/2011 continued

The castle has a training and care center for birds of prey. It is one of the few remaining sites in Europe where the ancient art of falconry is practiced. About 5-6 birds are sheltered at the center and kept in the castle garden for public viewing. We happened to reach the castle at about 4 pm, show time for the birds. The trainer used a whistle and small pieces of meat as a reward for the birds. The falcon flies around and at the sound of a (very soft) blow of the whistle, returns for its reward on the trainer's glove. It was amazing to watch as the bird responded to the faintest, almost imperceptible instructions from its trainer. If you would like to know more about falconry, check www.castellodivezio.it.