In Kyrgyzstan’s Issyk-Kul region, the centuries-old tradition of eagle hunting is making a comeback. Trainers, known as “berkutchi,” take golden eagles from the wild as chicks and raise them through a meticulous training process.

During this period, a powerful bond forms between the bird and its trainer. Once trained, the eagles are released back into the wild, in keeping with tradition.

The practice, which nearly vanished during the Soviet era, is now being revived through the interest of younger generations. Eagle hunting is regarded not only as a method of hunting, but also as a symbol of patience, loyalty and a treasured piece of cultural heritage.