Debra Gruszecki
The Desert Sun
Palm Springs, California
December 11, 2006

PALM SPRINGS - Elite Land Tours of Palm Springs has begun to offer
falconry educational tours in the Coachella Valley.

The tours, which have clients playing a part in the actual hunt with
birds of prey in their natural environment, offer clients an outdoor
learning experience about falconry from masters of the sport, said
Elite Land Tours owner Mark Farley.

Falconry, a sport once reserved for the nobility, is one of the
oldest forms of hunting.

The falconers who conduct the tours are fully licensed in accordance
with state and federal regulations, and have been members in good
standing with the California Hawking Club since 2001, Farley said.

The hunting parties to a spot in the valley by way of a Hummer H2,
will be limited to no more than four guests.

While there are no age requirements, the ability to hike in the field
or remote desert spots required because the terrain varies from flat
to mountainous. It is recommended that youth be 12-years or older.

Guests are guaranteed interaction with the falconer, the Harris hawks
and dogs. However, they will not be able to handle the birds.

The first tour was booked last week, Farley said. Another headed into
the high desert of Yucca Valley over the weekend.