From time immemorial the annual migration of flocks of wild birds from their summer to their winter quarters, has been harried and followed by passaging birds of prey, including the sakers, peregrines, and lanners, which are of interest to the Arab falconer. These migrations follow regular airways, with the falcons following their preferred quarry. Over the ages the falconers and trappers have discovered those places, and have evolved a variety of methods to outwit and capture them. One such method is the Choca or hide. These Choca sites will be operated year after year during season by the trappers. Captured birds are then either trained and used or they are sold through the hawk merchants. There are two operating trap sites along the northern coastline of Qatar that I know about, and both of them are in currently in use A Common Kestrel with attached lure and control line leading to the trapper who is out of view in the hide or Choca. When the Kestrel flies on the line the lure looks like prey, which attracts the attention of the passing falcons. If a bird flies down to investigate a live dove is used in conjunction with clap nets to ensnare it. The trapper pulls on a line and a dove is released from a pot in the ground on an attached string. As it flies up into the air it is preyed upon by the investigating falcon. Later as the falcon is busy eating its captured prey the trapper slowly pulls on the string attached to the dove. The dragging movement does not unduly worry the falcon which has probably experienced being dragged about by large quarry it may have taken in the wild. Once the falcon has been dragged into position the trapper pulls on another cord which releases the clap net to fall over the falcon This image taken at the second site shows the Kestrel on the ground with the attached lure lying close by. To an overflying falcon it will appear as if this bird has just made a kill. Note the different coloured lure being used here The Choca (hide). See the lines leading out to the clap nets positioned in a cleared area. The Kestrel is positioned out of sight to the right of the picture, perching on its pedestal. The Arabian Gulf is just visible in the background Source: Arab Falconry - History of a way of life. Author: Roger Upton
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