Burkutchi in Bokonbaev.

Up in the foothills above the small town of Bokonbaev, the air was clear and warm the scenery breathtaking, the magnificent backdrop of the Kyrgyz Ala-Too peaks of the Tien Shan mountain range. All is calm in my world.

Then these fuckers arrived.

Invited of course, we are here to see an example of hunting with eagles, common throughout the nomadic tribes of the people of Central Asia (though no doubt this is just for visitors, and the falconers live in plush mansions and drive Mazda cars). But let's just enjoy the spectacle and leave the cynicism in my arse pocket.

Burkutchi, (also the name of the master hunter), or eagle hunting is, we were told still one of the most common, favourite, and profitable activities in Kyrgyzstan.( this little show, don't get me wrong, I loved it, but at $15 each, there were 14 of us, not a bad little earner for under an hours work).

There is also an annual eagle hunting festival held in the town every August bringing falconers from all over the republic.

The leather tomogo is worn at all times when not released to keep the bird calm.

In Kyrgyzstan, birds of prey have always been seen as very important. The eagle, they say, represents the soul of their great ancient founder and hero Manas who was able to feed entire villages by killing animals such as deer

As an introduction one of the youngster was sent high up onto the brow of the hill, on his arm the eagle, hooded, the traditional tomogo, to keep the bird tranquil .

Tomogo off and released the bird found its man without any problem

The beginning of the training carries a dangerous task, a Berkutchi, has to capture a wild eagle or remove a fledgling from its nest. Preferably a female, as they are larger than the male and are more aggressive in the hunt. Who doesn't love an aggressive female, I must book another session with Miss Whiplash!

In the hunting season, usually October to February they would venture out into the wilderness many times. The bird sitting on the hunter’s leather-gloved hand, wearing the traditional tomogo (a hood) to keep her calm.

Once the prey has been spotted the tomogo is removed and the decisive, deadly attack is over in moments.

As this next demonstration shows, can you spot the rabbit?

Okay okay okay, despite my cynicism, this was a fantastic display, the skilful hunter and the beautiful eagle working in harmony, as they have done for centuries.

Loved it.