HEBE KVERNMO
Guardians of an ancient tradition

In the rugges landscapes of western Mongolia, particulary in the Altai Mountains, the tradition of eagle hunting is still practiced by Kazakh nomads. This ancient practice, passed down through generations, dates back over 1,000 years and is both a survival skill and a cultural art. These hunters, known as berkutchi, train the golden eagles from young age to hunt foxes and hares during the harsh winter months. The relationship is one of deep mutual respect, trust and discipline, and the reason why the eagle chooses to return when it is let free. After several years, the eagle is released back into the wild. Though rooted in centuries-old customs, the practice today exists a fragile crossroads between preservation and modern change, and less than a few hundred eagle hunters remain. Events like the Golden Eagle Festival attract tourists, which help sustain the tradition economically, but also raises question about commercialization and authenticity.

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