The tradition of domestication of falcon, hawk and eagles, and train them to the hunting has transmitted in world countries from the ancient time until today. The tradition to hunt with eagles is widely practiced among Kazakh ethnic groups of Mongolia. The custom of hunting with eagles is not only the daily necessity of life, but a great contribution to the development of a sport, competitions and festivals. Hunters develop a strong relationship and spiritual bond with their birds, and strong commitment and care is required to train, handle and fly the eagles. Traditional equipments such as hood, bewit, jess (short strap around the leg of an eagle), gauntlet (gloves), immovable seat, fork supporter on a horse, feeding bag and cup are used for the falconry.

The tradition of domestication of falcon, hawk and eagles, and train them to the hunting has transmitted in world countries from the ancient time until today. The tradition to hunt with eagles is widely practiced among Kazakh ethnic groups of Mongolia. The custom of hunting with eagles is not only the daily necessity of life, but a great contribution to the development of a sport, competitions and festivals. Hunters develop a strong relationship and spiritual bond with their birds, and strong commitment and care is required to train, handle and fly the eagles. Traditional equipments such as hood, bewit, jess (short strap around the leg of an eagle), gauntlet (gloves), immovable seat, fork supporter on a horse, feeding bag and cup are used for the falconry.

The tradition of domestication of falcon, hawk and eagles, and train them to the hunting has transmitted in world countries from the ancient time until today. The tradition to hunt with eagles is widely practiced among Kazakh ethnic groups of Mongolia. The custom of hunting with eagles is not only the daily necessity of life, but a great contribution to the development of a sport, competitions and festivals. Hunters develop a strong relationship and spiritual bond with their birds, and strong commitment and care is required to train, handle and fly the eagles. Traditional equipments such as hood, bewit, jess (short strap around the leg of an eagle), gauntlet (gloves), immovable seat, fork supporter on a horse, feeding bag and cup are used for the falconry.

“The Spirit of the Steppe: Mongolian Horse Culture” takes viewers on a powerful journey into the heart of Mongolia’s nomadic heritage—where horses are more than animals; they are partners in survival, symbols of strength, and spiritual companions.\n\nFor centuries, Mongolians have relied on horses for hunting, warfare, migration, transport, food, and drink. From galloping across the steppe to brewing healing mare’s milk (airag), horses are central to every aspect of nomadic life. Their unmatched endurance, compact build, and gentle temperament make Mongolian horses ideal for long rides, harsh climates, and riders of all ages.\n\nThis documentary explores how foals are trained from a young age, classified into herding, racing, catching, or event horses, and how they are selected for leadership based on traits like stamina, courage, and gait. Viewers will also discover Mongolia’s diverse horse breeds—like Galshar, Tesin Gol, and Darkhad—each adapted to different terrains, from desert to mountains.\n\nWith deep respect, herders care for their horses using centuries-old techniques such as acupuncture, moxibustion, and mindful riding practices. Tools like saddles, bridles, hobbles, and brushes are passed down through generations, and always stored in the honored western side of the ger.\n\nThe film also highlights horse-related rituals and songs, sung when milking mares, calming foals, or praising racehorses. These traditions, rich in emotion and wisdom, echo the unique bond between herder and horse—a bond built on trust, respect, and shared purpose.\n\nMongolian horses are not only fast and hardy—they’re loyal, intuitive, and capable of navigating home across vast distances. With each gallop, they carry the legacy of the steppe.

ICH Courier is the quarterly magazine on ICH in the Asia-Pacific region issued by ICHCAP since 2009. Every issue has its own theme under the title of the Windows to ICH, and the theme of the Vol 28 is 'ICH and Sacred Cultural Spaces.'

ICH Courier is the quarterly magazine on ICH in the Asia-Pacific region issued by ICHCAP since 2009. Every issue has its own theme under the title of the Windows to ICH, and the theme of the Vol 38 is 'Funeral Ceremonies and New Beginnings.'