THE FALCON 253 



falcons in former times, and they were used in later times for catch- 

 ing hares and rabbits. The peregrine falcon (F. peregrinus), not so 



FIG. 141. THE ICELAND FALCON. 



large as the gyrfalcon, but more elegant in shape, and exceedingly 

 swift in flight, said to be 150 miles an hour, was one of those most 

 frequently used in falconry, it naturally preying on grouse, part- 

 ridges, ptarmigans, pigeons, rabbits, etc. For small game the 

 hobby (F. subb uteo), (Fig. 142) was a great favourite for the chase 

 when falconry was in fashion, especially by the "ladies." 



It is strange how the sport of falconry has dropped into oblivion 

 in this country, as there are still many districts where it might be 

 followed without disadvantage to husbandry, especially as so much 

 arable land has been laid down in recent years to permanent pas- 

 ture, though possibly this depopulation and depression of food- 

 production process may be restored with advance in the price of 

 breadstuff ; and then, as in the time after the seventeenth century 

 up to which falconry continued in favour, firearms supersede it. 

 Attention has lately been drawn to the pursuit of hawking near 

 London, and as a set-off against rabbit-coursing. Mr. B. Morris, 

 of New Park Road, London, has recorded sport in Hertfordshire 

 so recentlv as seven years ago. " I remember," he states, " the 

 first day I had the privilege and pleasure to be of the party. The 



