Few people have had the rare privilege of getting up close and personal with a hawk, falcon, or owl, but Master Falconer Kate Marden and her team were on hand to let Dartmouth alumni (and a few from Harvard, Princeton, and Cornell too) and their families do just that. We watched the aerial antics of several falcons as they flew in a live flying demonstration, and showed everyone why they are the fastest animals on the planet, and why falconry is often called “the sport of kings”. But the fun didn’t stop there. A trained hawk flew close over our heads and past our shoulders, and attendees felt the delight of having a hawk, falcon, and owl sit on everyon's fists. This was a fun and fact-filled occasion with ample photo opportunities and one-on-one time with these incredible birds of prey. (C) Justin Tzou 2011