Game Hawker: A Wild Journey to Falconry | Patagonia Films

Shawn Hayes leads a life of devotion. For him, falconry is more than a deep partnership with raptors: it’s his life’s work. As an American falconry ambassador, he’s carved a space for himself where people of color haven’t always been welcome. It's taken him across the globe, into strongholds of tradition and conservation. This film is about more than what humans can train birds to do-it’s about what those birds can teach us about living in partnership with wild creatures and wild places.
Directors: Brett Marty & Josh Izenberg
Producers: Josh Izenberg, Brett Marty, and Shawn Hayes
Cinematography: Owen Bissell
Editor: Traci Loth
Composer: Todd Hannigan
Executive Producers: Monika McClure and Alex Lowther
European Cinematography: Niki Waltl
Additional Cinematography: Jason Joseffer, Josh Izenberg, Brett Marty, Ben Ditto, Kesten Migdal
Color: Dan Edwards
Visual Effects: Colin Gill, Zeke Faust
Sound Design and Re-Recording Mixer: Jeremiah Moore
Dialogue and Sound Editor: Eric Reimers
Archival footage Courtesy of: Patagonia, British Pathé, The Archives of Falconry, The Peregrine Fund, Wayne Hall, O'Brien Clarisse, Animal World, Colegio de Postgraduados
Host a screening: pat.ag/GameHawkerScreening
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About Patagonia:
At Patagonia, we appreciate that all life on earth is under threat of extinction. We’re using the resources we have-our business, our investments, our voice and our imaginations-to do something about it.

[@pavelyakimov]

Such an honor and pleasure to be part of this movie. An honor to be next to my friend Shawn all these years, strating from 2006 when our first meet was in Kearney, Nebraska, US (from where by the way is my profile picture and Shawn is next to the photographer) and pleasure for all these years meeting him around the world in US, Arabia, Europe... Such an advocate, an ambasador for Falconry and a great man! Big Bulgarian Hugs, brother!!! Stay safe!

[@zenxtravy7732]

I need Shawn contact if psbl kindly lemme know

[@Suriyavanna]

This film brought tears to my eyes. I am 23, of South- Asian decent and living in the NL. The moment Shawn mentions his experience with a projection of a flawed societal idea on him, that he cannot follow his dreams based on the colour of his skin, I felt that pain. Especially in relation to the shared passion that is the outdoors. I've been experiencing similar external demotivation and even racist/ discriminatory remarks about the dreams and passions I have, that for long I believed it... The notion that some particular hobbies, lifestyles, jobs etc. are not suitable for a person that is not 'white' is sadly still a big issue in the Outdoor sector. The fact that Patagonia acknowledges this by choosing to make a film with the representation of a person with this struggle, is a big-big-big support and shows that we all can and should enjoy/ work in the outdoor sector. Thank you Patagonia for making this film and thanks Shawn to be a good represention for us all.

[@BirdBath1]

23

[@BelindaFarage]

These are the stories that should be in the news. The great beauty that people are capable of - no matter what color, culture, or gender - those are the stories people need to hear.

[@BelindaFarage]

And I cried too.

[@tEhBoOn]

Racism in Falconry, boggles the mind. Sorry what you've gone through Shawn. But your overall look in life is truly inspirational. Don't ever let anyone or anything hold you back from doing what makes you happy. Great film!

[@u.s.cowboy3052]

Shawn is one of our local legends where we live. Nice guy, humble. His spirit will most likely venture through these mountains with the falcons, eagles, hawks and ravens one day. When I am out side of my home in the back country and the ravens are talking. Or I am up in a cliff band with Falcon's crying. You know they are old spirits you can feel it and hear it in there conversations. Good times Shawn keep up the great work.

[@tavakessler]

Beautiful film! Patagonia films consistently expose me to topics I know nothing about. Great work to all involved.

[@Kikibeluga]

same here!!

[@Avestruzjr]

For years I have always described Shawn as an ambassador to my fellow falconer friends because I can't think of anybody who's traveled the world so much advocating the sport of falconry.

[@carlosmacmartin4205]

A rare, unique man and human being. Much respect to Shawn Hayes. Truly "One of a Kind"!

[@teasp00ns]

Man. Unexpectedly cried when Shawn said “… but I don’t go to falconry meets anymore” while showing his pin collection - in the coolest pin-board I’ve ever seen. :( I’m glad he kept doing it anyways, he’s obviously very good at it and understands the relationship between him and his raptors. There’s a lot to be said for having kindness and curiosity when hanging out with animals. Great work by the cinematographers too!

[@silvermainecoons3269]

I love how everyone in the comments seems to have a personal connection with Shawn. This was an amazing film, I actually had tears in my eyes at times. I’m a biologist so I was aware of the DDT catastrophe, so glad falconers were able to bring them back from the brink.

[@Mom-Mimi]

So amazing! And Shawn is such an amazing human being. Love having him as a neighbor, his kindness is above all. It’s a pleasure to know him and see his falcons outside in his yard. They are so beautiful 😍

[@leighfoster4808]

Sean, I just plain love this work you put together! As an African-American falconer this film resonates deeply for me. Well done, my friend, I hope to be able to see you soon.

[@sfuterfas]

Beautifully shot film and what an amazing guy Shawn is, doing what he truly loves. He may not be a millionaire, but he travels the world, exploring different cultures and meeting interesting, like-minded people along the way. What a rich life he has.

[@kirkoman1]

Wow Shawn, great to see you in action. You have blessed Patagonia catalogs for years and it's great to see you working your birds in the most special place that's the E Side. I am a lover of birds and birds of prey and can't say how much I appreciate what you do and the commitment you bring. You are special.

[@darkmatters8852]

Finally they giving this man his flowers 💐

[@Darksagan]

I didnt even know this was a thing. But its bad ass, especially seeing a brother doing it. Great doc.

[@rtraylor83]

My exact thoughts

[@huntersofcolor1056]

Thank you for sharing this "untold story" Patagonia. We hope to continue this good work with you and encourage the next generation of hunter-conservationists.

[@chrispfister4595]

Shawn, you are a giant.

[@davidhuth5659]

I would love to meet this guy! I was a falconer in my youth and completely understand his passion. It's sad that there are still those who don't think he should he able to do this.

[@onmywatchtv9376]

Fantastic film so heart felt and a beautifully told story. I met Shawn yesterday at a local worm composting meeting and we talked birds and worms for an hour. Shawn is a gentle soul and I am grateful I met him.

[@hennieheuvelman7516]

Beautiful how Shawn talks about his passion and birds, beautiful documentary, beautiful person, I wish him all the best from the Netherlands

[@TheDMVFalconer]

Beautiful and Amazing Video! Congratulations Shawn for making a great inspiration to Falconers and especially people that look like Us in the sport 🖤🦅

[@carlosmonteiro5388]

As a paraglider pilot, I frequently fly alongside with a lot of different birds… some of the best experiences in my life …

[@vladlyzhenkov823]

It's been 10 years since we met Shawn at a falconer meeting in Austria. Nice movie, enjoyed watching it!

[@bradgantt1818]

Such a beautiful and inspiring film. I'm grateful Shawn Hayes is out there doing what he loves. It benefits all of us.

[@binnis99]

I'm just watching this today. This is so cool. It's nice to see another POC that doesn't exactly fit the mold of someone's negative narrative of what they think we should be. Thanks for this video.

[@cloudbullets]

Excellent film, thanks for taking the time to share Shawn’s journey and career. He lives right in my backyard! My parents met him in 1986 and some of the photos featured were taken by my dad when they hung out. Hoping they can reconnect soon. Keep continuing to inspire, especially people of color, Shawn!

[@Konabilancia]

I grew up with my Uncle and his passion for falconry. My eyes lit up to see Patagonia put focus and attention to the real reason why this special skill is unique and needed in our crumbling world. Big love to Shawn sharing his passion and his spirit.

[@Lee-yd3og]

an amazing man. If only the world was managed by big men like Shawn, rather than the tiny men who run things.

[@azubuikeekueme9001]

Thanks Shawn for giving me hope in the human family. You helped me clear my lens and see the world more broadly. A birds eye view lol. Peace

[@ClareGallagherEarthRaging]

Wow what an incredible guy. Your birds are lucky to have you, Shaun!

[@michaelwalling8281]

Nature has such a profound affect on people.

[@nopalich]

An inspiration for my Son who chose to begin falconry.

[@bomchickawahwaaaaah]

Shawn is a legend! Thanks for sharing this moving and inspirational film.

[@someone.weaver205]

Hey Shawn I’m one of the students that you visited i really liked your presentation and im from Mrs Rosens class

[@oldschoolhawking8191]

I've been to about two dozen California Hawking Club meets since 1975, I only remember a handful of times when Shawn attended. But I'll tell you, he always had a crowd around him, he was definitely liked.

[@beckylby8409]

What an inspiration you are to all, Shawn. This film was very interesting, educational, but also tearful for what you have endured. I am a 68 year old (white as a sheet) woman & have said things as a youngster that is racist. I’ve learned from my ignorance, with wisdom & regrets. You are an amazing gentleman, an example of whom we all should be! You are greater than most men, not only how you’ve carried yourself throughout life but, what you continue to do for the life of our planet & for others. You make us all proud! I will share this film so others will see your successes & maybe, just maybe learn something too. I had no idea the love & work that goes into falconers. Thank you!

[@howardmanuel]

Good for you man! I'm glad you are blessed to do this. My interest has come too late in my life. Thank you for letting me watch and enjoy.

[@BelindaFarage]

I Love EVERYTHING about this. Shawn. His story. The survival of the falcons. The work of the filmmakers. Stunning. This man’s openness to be filmed and heard. To go around the world teaching and supporting the passion he has - the Passion - for falconry - his birds. Stunning. Beautiful. I feel this in my soul. Thank you.

[@flytelaw1]

I am a self taught Falconer from the late 1970’s and early 1980’s….I lived in western and eastern Canada….I miss my old lifestyle….great film………I live in Doha, Qatar but as an Airline Pilot, I cannot responsibly go back…you are an inspiration and I hate the way the USA treats people of color….I feel for you and hope I can shake your hand one day…🙏🐥

[@terencegamble4548]

This film gave me moments of sadness, but also lifted my heart. Thank you for this film and best wishes and strength to Shawn who is an inspiration as a falconer and a human.

[@alcalavi]

Another extraordinary Patagonia film! Shawn, your work with the falcons is truly amazing and it reminds me to Felix Rodriguez de la Fuente in Spain. Great job and keep it up Embassador Shawn!

[@stonepa]

Fantastic film. Such an interesting subject yet so sad that racism is so rampant in America. Excellent work Patagonia.

[@stevesomach]

Nicely done Shawn ! Thank you!

[@nathanrichards9202]

Incredible Shawn what a devotion and inspiration to people of colour who feel held back in the outdoors!

[@budgibson8045]

Shawn you just keep doing what you are doing and you keep showing the LOVE 🥰 OF THE SPORT💯 the birds don't 👀 race or their color 💯 & your 🐦 know that you LOVE THEM💯

[@jeffreyallen942]

Bro you are a absolute boss...!

[@majellbackhausen8000]

I've just learnt so much about a world and it's community I never knew existed! Learning is awesome. Thank you Shawn and Co.

[@robertpayne3394]

Thanks for putting the effort into this film. We met years ago the Dodge city and again in Kearney. Thanks also for all you do to make a positive impact to young people today. Good hawking!

[@couchphotography8861]

I'm not a falconer, but I do capture birds with my camera! Stunningly beautiful film and photography. All birds are special! The birds don't see skin colour, they just see the person, and if they don't like what they see, they fly away right? People who think it's OK to denigrate and insult another person in such a way are just jealous. That was the sad part of this film, what Shawn has had to put up with in the past. But it's obvious who the losers are, keep on doing what you're doing, you're a star Shawn!

[@what2watchyt]

Nice documentary. It's been needed not too many out there.

[@kevincrawfordphoto]

I am not a (YOUNG PERSON) of color. I'll be 59 years old in May of this year. 👴🏿 Whew!!! LOL! But I am inspired nonetheless. ✊🏾 I'm sharing this with everyone I know who share a love for the outdoors. Shawn, I hope to meet you one of these days. Maybe on the river. Maybe on the plains. Be well. Stay healthy.

[@sebastianbolt7886]

You are on the path of the peaceful Warrior, To soar and change the darkness in others, never let rascism change your outlook on the world, rise high like your falcon because you see more and change others without bitterness or hate. It's your WORLD. ♥️

[@UXHeWrote]

What a beautiful film.

[@Tessaranysaurus_Rex]

Shawn is a beautiful human. Amazing story.

[@jonahmcbride934]

Shawn - Your welcome to fly with me anytime you come to UT. We all miss seeing you at the Sky Trials.

[@Kikibeluga]

BEAUTIFUL!!!!

[@doranwaite6152]

Excellent film Brett! What a great story, keep up the great work Shawn

[@evangreen8990]

What an amazing film, such a beautiful way to learn about Shawn's story!

[@donhansen7191]

Well done Shawn and production crew. Love ya brother.

[@jayajog8829]

Lovely film with incredible camera angles and close ups..very soothing background music..it's a totally different world.. world of king of feathers..Hats off to Shawn and his sensitivity towards Falcons....

[@canyonhaverfield2201]

Wild hearted man- falcon, Subaru & big sky's at altitude..right on !

[@bryantrammell587]

Thanks for creating and sharing.

[@farbeyonddriven8173]

Beyond cool! You go Shawn. Remarkable creatures!!!!!!

[@user-eq7nr3bb1c]

Thank you for an outstanding, informative video. I cant think of a better ambassador for Falconry. Never let the color of your skin hinder you. We all bleed the same color-❤🎯💯☘️👍☺️

[@rayryngaert3769]

Stand up guy, made me so happy. I wish I had somebody like this to teach me the ropes to this. I want to do it

[@zanlehman5208]

Shawn your spirit is a teacher. My food has been the wild places. My spirit food. I am wordless by experiencing your journey here.

[@bucketofbarnacles]

Incredibly beautiful. I’m ashamed of the racism Shawn has experienced.

[@seecesar]

Awesome doc!!!!

[@robertdini1930]

Every year in The Hudson Valley the gunks get shut down to rock climbers because its a major peregrine falcon breeding area. It's amazing to be up in the mountains around there and storm king in the spring / fall to see all of the red headed wood pecker caucuses scattered around. The falcons speed and ability to hunt is unparalleled, truly amazing creatures. This was a great short film, thanks for sharing!

[@AvianInstinct]

I'd love to meet and hunt with Shawn. This video was one of my inspirations to finally start falconry.

[@chrisgilbert2152]

what a great video! reminds me of my youth 50 years ago, growing up 30 miles from Shawn, raising red tails, with NO real knowledge. T memories are vivid!

[@GBRbaptist]

Love you brother! Amazing film! Hope to see you come fly here in Nebraska again!

[@kinggage]

This is dope 🔥

[@ChrisB-iu4ul]

Incredible story! Shawn is an inspiration to us all.

[@ari-TV]

Wow, beautiful and touching story. Most definitely inspirational.

[@ricflair5956]

Conservation and the outdoors do not see color. It only recognizes those who care, and those who do not. Thanks for caring, Shawn!

[@DavidSL64]

Great movie. Enjoyed very much.

[@rilorilo6780]

Love the message! Appreciate your hard work to bring it to us thank you Shawn.

[@tiedeken1]

Best Patagonia video yet! They are all amazing but this one takes the cake!

[@wowzzers321]

Outstanding. This is a high quality documentary about a high quality man doing something that is likely overlooked by countless Americans. Sadly I am not surprised that racism plays a part. But what is most inspiring to me is this man’s dedication to something that has an environmental impact and a true love of animals. I’m inspired. Thank you for this. I loved this documentary. The best ones always transport me somewhere else and enrich me.

[@davidrosenthal2681]

Thankyou for sharing your story. I watched you fly some great birds in the Utah Sky Trials in the 1990's.

[@tylerdooley4783]

Beautiful!

[@evebikerbabematthews2308]

I'm in total amazement, shock, hurt and tears! You have extensive experience, knowledge and love for predators that were about to be extinct. I am just proud of you Sean for believing in what is in your soul. I was so happy for you and proud to see you in Europe educating fellow Keepers of all these beautiful birds and how they came from so many countries to listen and learn from a man that is so well respected and regarded! You have folks in the U.S. that try to denegate you, steal your birds, put their trashy hands on you and call you out of your name but thousands here and abroad have a 1000 percent different view! Keep saving and educating these birds so that they can continue to thrive💝💓💞❤🧡💛💚💙💜💥💫💯 I'm sending the link to you video to all my family and friends🤎💟💌

[@206coconutz]

Incredible story. Exquisite storytelling and production. Thank you for blowing my mind, again.

[@tzeldetuma3298]

I love this man.

[@falconer_moscow]

Glad to meet you Shawn! And it was amazing that you had come in Russia. Nice memories. Get lucky and stay safe

[@johndunnill276]

Great storey and good to see my old friend Pavel yankimo

[@lookitsnotmyname]

I’m blown away by his story! Wow, what a guy!

[@richardbrown6278]

I knew I had seen you somewhere before the falconry videos . it was the bull fighting cool stuff

[@themanabroad7800]

This film really moved me, absolutely fantastic and a real inspiration. My uncle has had birds my whole life and it’s always been a passion of mine, I did my dissertation on raptors. One day when my life allows me, I’d love to begin to learn how to raise a bird and fly them at game.

[@herpetologic]

Gorgeous start to finish and yet another example of how insane our racist culture is. Good to see that Shawn's spirit is prevailing. Excellent film.

[@desert.mantis]

Beautiful film of the beautiful story about a beautiful man and his beautiful birds.

[@hereforit1202]

Oh wow, one of the best films yet. Thanks for all you do Mr Hayes

[@damienetchaubard5456]

I truly enjoyed learning how falconry helped in conservation efforts and how these apex predators are key to ensuring strong, healthy ecosystems. Always great to see Yvon and see how his start in climbing all began with falconry. Very beautiful film, nice work!

[@jeremystyles4376]

Wow. Amazing all around. Shawn is "the master"! So humble.

[@iainclark4835]

Excellent.....wonderful .......

[@andreasneumann7014]

Interesting Vidio and bautiful birds! Best regards from germany

[@karincolby1090]

Wow This was so beautifully done. Thank you.

[@kevinmarkey2039]

Very well done!!

[@TOmaynardOL]

Inspiring commitment to his birds. Selfless really. Beautiful film Patagonia.