Having the chance to spend a little time with Aitbek, one of the few true eagle hunters remaining in Kyrgyzstan, was one of the most magnificent experiences of our time here. His bond with ‘Beren’, a ten year old female, was closer than I could ever have imagined. Eagle hunters will take a bird from its mountain nest while just a few months old, then rear and train it as their own, with the bond lasting up to 60 years. As the last of the day’s light faded he showed us an injury to her claw after catching a jackal on a recent hunting trip, she’s certainly not just for show. More to come from this amazing day.