In the captivating world of falconry, a Harris hawk named Bird demonstrates remarkable intelligence by turning to nature for healing. This extraordinary tale unfolds in Be More Bird by Candida Meyrick, a blend of memoir, beginner’s guide, and inspirational read that explores the deep bond between humans and wild creatures.
A Transformative Journey with a Hawk
Candida Meyrick acquired her Harris hawk in 2020, marking a pivotal chapter in her life. Diagnosed with cancer a few years earlier, she navigated the grueling treatment process, emerging with a renewed appreciation for life’s simple joys. Moments like relaxing in a hammock or observing her children brought profound peace, teaching her to live fully in the present.
Falconry, for Meyrick, became more than a hobby—it fostered a partnership with a fiercely independent animal. Rather than dominating the hawk, she learned to see the world through its keen eyes, embracing trust and freedom. The book structures each chapter around key lessons drawn from Bird, covering topics from enhancing family bonds to facing life’s end.
Lessons in Trust and Independence
One poignant example involves Meyrick watching Bird soar beyond sight during flights, only to return reliably. This mirrored her own anxieties, such as her daughter’s first solo transatlantic journey, helping her build resilience and let go of worry.
Hawks embody power and elegance, weighing no more than a bag of sugar yet capable of hunting large prey like roe deer. Historically favored by royalty, these birds highlight the thrill of shared freedom in falconry.
Bird’s Remarkable Self-Healing
Early in their companionship, Bird suffered a severe injury, crashing into a tree at 33 mph and damaging her talons. Infection set in, threatening her survival. Yet, during the next outing, the hawk flew directly to a white willow tree, scraping her beak on the bark and nibbling it. Remarkably, she then sought out wild thyme, consuming small amounts despite her carnivorous diet.
White willow contains salicin, the natural precursor to aspirin, offering anti-inflammatory relief. Thyme provides strong antiseptic properties. Through this instinctive behavior, Bird recovered swiftly, showcasing nature’s built-in pharmacy and the hawk’s innate wisdom.
Universal Wisdom from an Unusual Life
Meyrick’s world extends beyond the hawk, including an aviary, roaming peacocks, and a family heritage spanning centuries. A quick search reveals her connection to historic estates, yet the insights from Bird remain accessible to all. From parenting with patience to confronting mortality, these avian-inspired lessons offer timeless guidance.
Be More Bird by Candida Meyrick (William Collins, £16.99, 198pp) invites readers to embrace a wilder, more mindful perspective on life.
