World's largest falcon hospital in Abu Dhabi
In the United Arab Emirates, the falcon is considered a symbol of pride and tradition. The falcon hospital is an interesting attraction here.
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Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is the world's leading falconry center, under the leadership of German veterinarian Dr. Margrit Gabriele Müller. |
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The center functions as a human hospital. Upon arrival, birds are weighed and assessed for injuries or symptoms of illness. |
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Non-serious cases will be in the waiting room. |
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Serious cases are taken to the operating room immediately. A surgery can last several hours. |
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Even in simple treatments, falcons are anesthetized to avoid pain and allow the doctor to perform the procedure accurately. |
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“You need a special intuition to understand what they want and what they need,” says Ms. Müller. “You have to feel it, only then can you become good at this industry.” |
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The hospital treats about 11,500 falcons each year, an increase of 15-20%. |
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Damaged feathers are one of the most common conditions treated at the hospital. The hospital has feathers in many sizes and colors for replacement. |
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In captivity, the beak and talons of falcons need to be trimmed regularly, rather than wearing out naturally as they do in the wild. |
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A dehydrated falcon is injected with saline and glucose. The hospital has 107 staff and a fully equipped laboratory. |
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Ms. Müller opens the ear of a falcon. She has worked with them for more than 20 years and has grown attached to the bird. |
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At the hospital, falcons have special hats to help them stay calm, especially when other falcons are around. |
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The bird’s owner sometimes waits for hours while the bird undergoes surgery. According to Müller, when the owner visits, the bird recognizes the person and will try to cry or move. There is a strong bond between the owner and the bird. |
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These falcons, some of which are endangered, have their own passports and are given their own seats in business class on international flights. |
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The hospital hosts tours twice daily (except Fridays), allowing visitors to learn about how the hospital operates and come into contact with the magnificent falcons. |
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Visitors can watch the treatment or surgery. If you are lucky, you will get to feed them. |
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The hospital has two air-conditioned aviaries where the falcons fly freely. This is also where they molt in the summer. |
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Falconry is an important part of life in the UAE. The tradition of falconry dates back to the days when Bedouin families used the birds to hunt in the desert. In 2012, the tradition was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. |
According to Zing
