The Union of the man and the birds: 7 stunning photos of falconry in Mongolia

In the wild, mountainous areas of Mongolia, a small group of nomads supports the ancient art of falconry. This tradition has 4 000 years and probably will live another how much. German photographer Leo Thomas recently visited Altai region of Western Mongolia, to capture this fascinating culture and to photograph one of the last women-hunters of Mongolia.

Traditional hunting with tamed birds of prey has been known since antiquity. Falcon is its common name. This may be falcons, hawks, eagles and other hunting birds. The traditional form of falconry involves training birds of prey which help to hunt wild animals such as foxes and small rabbits. It is an ancient skill passed from father to son for millennia.

Young hunter learns, in one of the city schools, but every weekend practicing with his hunting bird with brother Bersabee.

The photographer captured Samanyolu on horseback in traditional fur clothes handmade, showing off her free power and the inextricable link with the winged predator.

Stunning photos of Leo Thomas to the beauty of this mysterious ancient culture, so far away from the Western world.