In May 2020, amidst the growing exposure of race-based assaults on Black people in the United States, a Black birdwatcher in New York’s Central Park was verbally accosted and placed in harms way. While exposure of the assault sparked outrage, it also caused a group of Black naturalists to establish an annual Black Birders Week. They designated a time and a set of activities for acknowledging, supporting, and celebrating Black birders. One of the people the heightened attention exposed was Rodney Scott, Master Falconer.
Falconers are specialty experts licensed to train, trap, and care for hawks, eagles and other birds of prey. Among more than 4,000 falconers in the United States, Scott is reportedly one of only a few who are Black. Because he loves sharing his passion for birds with youth, Scott is sowing seeds of interest likely to produce more Black falconers.
Rodney Scott is a remarkable example of how Black people CAN live outside prescribed boundaries, and DO achieve beyond limits. To read more about Scott’s remarkable journey to becoming a master falconer, click here.
BONUS: To view the NEW 58-minute video documentary about Scott’s amazing life and mastery, click here.