A man with a message of conservation and education is bringing the art of falconry to Cardigan.

Falconer Guy Simmonds, who has set-up Falconry Wales first got into falconry after an experience session similar to the ones he runs now. Ten years on he has 15 birds and wants to teach people about his passion.

Guy said: “I want to bring an affordable experience to people and families, being able to hold touch and see how the birds are trained is something people often never get to see.

“Falconry is an ancient art. If people are truly interested in the sport I do consider taking on volunteers or even running courses.”

He explained that the amount birds he has now he can fly them four or five times a week. He went on to say that if he can’t fly the birds there’s no point in having them.

Originally from Australia and moving to Wales at the age of 11 he has now returned back to Ceredigion after his falconry skills took him around the world.

He has done work in various locations including Dubai and working for the zoological society of London, Whipsnade zoo being part of a team flying and training not only falconry species but exotics from storks to parrots to toucans.

Now he has new challenges with a business and bringing the experience to other people.

The next step for him includes opening up a woodland area to handle the birds and learning to fly them off horse back as well hopefully bringing in exotics.

He explained: “The woodland area is great for handling the birds but for flying out current location is great. You can see all around the Preseli Hills across to the sea.”

Experiences come in two and four hour sessions and are limited to a maximum of five people at one time, with a normal amount of two to three.

Falconry Wales doesn’t just offer experiences there is also displays, school visits, educational and conservation talks, falconry courses and training and natural pest control services, hunting days and photographic days.

To find out more or book your experience visit www.facebook.com/FalconryWales/