In 2023, a new law came into force banning commercial trade in gyrfalcons, the most valuable hunting birds in the world. This decision caused a heated discussion among the Sokolniki. What has changed: Now it is legally possible to purchase a gyrfalcon only through official nurseries for reintroduction or scientific programs. Auctions have shifted to Saker falcons and peregrine falcons, whose populations are stable. Prices for "permitted" birds increased by 30-50%. Expert opinion: "This is a painful but necessary step," said Ivan Petrov, head of the Sokolniki Union of Russia. "There are less than 1,000 pairs of gyrfalcons left in the wild. But now the demand for artificially raised birds is growing." How does this affect the SOKOLWEBSITE platform?: We have added CITES certification for all lots and are cooperating with nurseries, offering legal birds with a full package of documents.