RIYADH: A large crowd of falcon enthusiasts gathered on Friday to witness the auction of two extraordinary falcons on the first auction night of this year's International Falcon Breeders Auction.
Organized by the Saudi Falcons Club, the event is being held at its headquarters in Malham, north of Riyadh, and will continue until August 24.
It features more than 35 elite falcon production farms from 16 countries displaying their prized birds for sale, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Falco Cherug, known locally as Hoor, from the Polish Fire Falcons Farm bid for SR65,000 ($17,320), followed by another falcon from the same farm for SR105,000, bringing the total for the evening. SR170,000.
Twelve auction nights will be held throughout the event. Competitions and auctions are broadcast live on TV channels and the club's social media platforms.
The club announces the hawks on offer before each auction night, SPA reported.
With a history of more than SR18 million in sales over the past three years, the auction presents new international breeding farms and promotes collaboration between producers and investors.
The event provides a valuable networking opportunity for hawkers and breeders from around the world. This is in line with the Saudi Falcons Club's commitment to preserving Baja's heritage and promoting the Kingdom as a global hub for sports.
It also aligns with the club's vision to lead in the development, innovation, breeding and care of falcons. The program contributes to the cultural and economic landscape while raising awareness about environmental protection.