ROSIE THE EAGLE

Back in March 2011, Bovey Castle announced that it had become the only hotel in the UK with an eagle that can be flown by guests. When Artemis joined the hotel's collection of birds of prey, cared for and trained by falconer Martin Whitley, it was assumed that we had surpassed ourselves in our attempt to offer the most exciting selection of activities in the country.

Four months later and Bovey Castle is now the proud owner of Rosie, a fully-grown American bald eagle. With a wing span of 6.6 ft and weight of 11 lbs, Rosie is slightly smaller than Artemis but equally as powerful. In the wild, Rosie would thrive on hunting for fish and American bald eagles are considered to be strong swimmers. As fish features so predominantly in her diet, Martin is hoping to have Rosie trained for simulated hunting on the hotel lakes by autumn.

Her training has also prepared her for inclusion in Bovey Castle's Eagle Experience, which gives guests the opportunity to handle and fly Artemis and Rosie - either at Dartmoor Hawking or at a secret location on Dartmoor. 

There is certainly never a dull moment for Martin, especially with two eagles to keep him company: "They keep me on my toes, life is always interesting when it includes two spectacular birds of prey such as Artemis and Rosie." 

Feathers and Talons
Artemis the Eagle
Falconry Experience