International Association for Falconry and Conservation of Birds of Prey

The International Association for Falconry and Conservation of Birds of Prey (IAF) is the global voice of falconers, representing 120 member organizations across 90 countries. The IAF promotes the conservation of birds of prey and their habitats, and safeguards the UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage of falconry—a sustainable hunting art practiced for over 6,000 years. The IAF is accredited as an observer, member, or expert advisor to key international bodies affecting falconry and the conservation of birds of prey including IUCN, IPBES, CMS, CMS Raptors MoU, CBD, CITES, and UNESCO. We advocate at global, regional, and national levels to ensure that falconry is represented and falconers are included as stakeholders in biodiversity conservation, cultural heritage, and sustainable use policy. Our work is guided by the IAF motto: “Quod totum procedit ex amore” (because everything comes from passion)—embodied in the dedication of our global network of volunteers, experts, and active practitioners supported through our permanent office in Brussels with a professional staff to support our volunteer work-force. This building also houses the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Museum of Falconry which is open to the public. Through civic participation, ethical standards, and scientific collaboration, the IAF supports: - Conservation of raptors, their prey, and ecosystems. - Transmission of falconry as intangible cultural heritage of humanity. -Setting the highest welfare and ethical standards in the use of birds of prey. - Scientific research, species recovery, and environmental monitoring. - Advocacy for sustainable use and traditional knowledge in conservation frameworks.