Keeping alive a declining Kazak tradition

Updated: 2014-10-31 21:12

(chinadaily.com.cn)

Editor's note: In their boyhood, Kazak men dream of flying free as an eagle. Whey they grow up, they raise an eagle to realize their dream.

Eagle training, which developed from the nomadic tribe's admiration for the majestic bird of prey, is an ancient tradition of Kazak people living in Central Asia. But less eagles are being raised since the raptor was listed as protected creature. The few remaining trainers continue to practice the ancient tradition to preserve their culture.

Tuokbek, 73, is an eagle trainer in Ili Kazak autonomous prefecture in Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region. He has trained his golden eagle for years. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]