Rare Ultra-White Falcon Fetches Record-Breaking Dh2.1 Million at Abu Dhabi Auction

An 'exceptionally rare' falcon has made history by selling for a record-breaking Dh2.1 million at an Abu Dhabi auction. The pure ultra-white gyrfalcon generated intense interest among bidders on the final day of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (Adihex) on Sunday.

Hailing from the US, the prized bird of prey is highly coveted for its exceptionally rare white plumage, pure lineage, and striking appearance. This milestone marks the highest price a falcon has ever fetched at an Adihex auction, concluding the largest installment in the event's history.

An Adihex statement noted that the gyr pure ultra white is the most sought-after falcon in this year's auctions due to its unique physical traits. It is the third falcon to reach at least Dh1 million during the exhibition's lucrative auction series.

Two other pure ultra-white gyrfalcons previously sold for Dh1.5 million and Dh1.1 million. Both birds were bred in the US by the Mark Moglich farm, which specializes in high-end raptors including snow-white Arctic gyrfalcons, peregrine falcons, gyr-peregrine hybrids, and Russian Siberian goshawks.

Gyrfalcons are celebrated for their superior hunting expertise, speed, precision, size, and heat tolerance, commanding massive fees while serving as elite status symbols in the Middle East.

The 23rd Adihex was extended to 10 days, drawing 2,400 companies and brands from 71 countries, alongside 55 leading local and international falcon-breeding farms. Held at Adnec, the event highlighted the nation's deep-rooted passion for falconry, equestrianism, and environmental sustainability.

Abdulaziz Mohammed, a spokesman for Adihex, emphasized that this year's edition featured the largest falcon auction program in the exhibition’s history alongside a major purebred Arabian horse auction. These achievements further solidify Adihex as a premier global platform for heritage, culture, hunting, and equestrianism enthusiasts.