According to historical records birds of prey, especially falcons, have been used by man for hunting since ancient times. As early as circa 400 B.C. the Indians trained these birds, especially saker falcons, and there is an account of falcons being used for hunting by the men of Thrace in the year 75 A.D. Falconry in Rome dates from 480 A.D. The new sport soon became widespread and even Church dignitaries began to show an interest in it. About 800 A.D. Charlemagne issued a decree pertaining ...