Zerendi, 22 October. On the eve of Republic Day, the international Qansonar tournament for hunters with birds of prey took place in Zerendi district, Akmola region, with about 80 berkutchi, or eagle hunters, from Kazakhstan, Russia, Türkiye, Mongolia, China and Kyrgyzstan.
It was the first time the tournament was held in Zerendi district: previously it took place in Kokshetau and at the foot of the Burabay mountains. The competition lasted two days: on the first the eagle hunters competed, on the second teenagers flew their hawks and falcons. The tournament, held for the 26th time, is dedicated to the memory of eagle hunter Masip Batyrkhanuly. "I am a hereditary eagle hunter; seven generations of our family have practised this art," said Saigulik Nurgaiyp from Mongolia; for Turkish eagle hunter Mutlu Kızılboğa it was his sixth trip to Kazakhstan.
Qansonar is the traditional hunt with birds of prey whose season begins with the first snow.
What it means: The traditional Kazakh art of hunting with golden eagles draws masters from across the region, and the tournament is becoming more international every year.
Who benefits: The eagle hunters, who preserve and showcase their craft; Akmola region, which draws attention and tourists to Zerendi district.
Background: The tournament gained international status in 2017; judges assess the appearance of the birds and the hunters' costumes, free flight and the bird's ability to catch prey.
List of sources used: Qazaqstan TV, 24KZ, Zakon.kz
Artificial intelligence was used in preparing this material.
