In the early to mid 80's Al Ross developed a method for getting his passage merlins to pursue large starling flocks in high climbing flights. At the time he was one of very few falconers in Utah flying merlins, so when he would attend the Utah Sky Trials others that were curious about his birds would ask to see them fly.  After the day's competition with larger falcons, Al would take a group of spectators along with him to fly his merlins.  Over time more falconers engaged in this style of merlin hawking and they would all meet at the local dairies, feed lots, and mink farms swarming with thousands of starlings. The Utah Sky Trials began advertising a "merlin meet" as part of the activities at their event, and through the years committed merlin hawkers, like Al, made themselves available for anyone that came to see merlins fly.  In the last few years attendance at the merlin meet has consistently grown to the point that in 2016 we provided more opportunities for guests with group dinners, a dessert social, and guest speakers. Of course each day was still filled with merlins pursuing starlings! This coming February promises to be quite an event with guests from all around the world already committing to being there.  We are excited that you are considering joining us for the 2018 Utah Merlin Meet!